Serum prolactin levels in patients with psoriasis: Results of a pilot study

Prolactin possibly plays a pathogenetic role in psoriasis by stimulating keratinocyte proliferation, T-lymphocyte interferon gamma production and promoting angiogenesis1. The inhibition of the T-suppressor cell functions by prolactin may serve to promote psoriatic plaque development2. It has been postulated that retinoids decrease the prolactin secretion from pituitary gland and add to their antipsoriatic effect3. Bromocriptine, an antiprolactin drug has been found useful in the treatment of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis4,5. There are studies demonstrating serum prolactin levels varying with severity, duration and treatment of psoriasis5-8. However, not many studies are available from India.