(April 20, 2009 - Insidermedicine) Women with psoriasis are more likely to develop diabetes and high blood pressure than those without, according to research published in the Archives of Dermatology.

Here is some information about psoriasis:

•    It is called a skin condition because it causes patches of red, raised areas or lesions covered with a silvery white buildup.

•    However, it is caused by a malfunctioning immune system.

•    Individuals with psoriasis are known to be at increased risk for several medical illnesses, including depression and heart disease.

Harvard researchers analyzed information on over 100,000 female nurses to look at the relationship between psoriasis, diabetes and high blood pressure. Nearly 80,000 responded to a survey about whether they had ever been diagnosed with psoriasis.

Over 2% of the women had been diagnosed with psoriasis, 2% developed diabetes, and 20% developed high blood pressure. Those with psoriasis were 63% more likely to develop diabetes and 17% more likely to develop high blood pressure.

We had a chance to speak with Dr. Abrar Qureshi, the principal investigator of this study, who offered some further insight.

Today's research highlights the need to consider that psoriasis may place patients at increased risk for other health problems.

For Insidermedicine in Depth, I'm Dr. Susan Sharma.