Psoriasis is a skin disease of an unknown origin. Current understanding of its pathophysiology focuses on an undefined imbalance between the immune system and the nervous system. In this study we assessed the effects of a training program which was proven to affect both. A group of psoriatic patients volunteered, and were randomized to either the intervention (n = 19), or control group (n = 19). Subjects in the intervention group were trained for 10 weeks in breathing techniques, exposure to cold and meditation. The control group was not trained. After two weeks of the intervention, a full lockdown due to the COVID-19 pandemics was introduced. Modified protocol included exercises possible to conduct at home only. Two study visits (before and after the intervention) took place. Based on an analysis of blood and saliva samples, skin condition, and questionnaire answers, a flare up of psoriasis occurred among members of the control group. It was confirmed by an increase in hsCRP concentration, and decrease of seral interleukin-10 levels. 55% of those subjects declared intensification of the topical treatment. In the intervention group, a slight improvement was observed. Psoriasis Area Severity Index decreased, as well as interleukin 17 levels in saliva. Dermatology Life Quality Index improved fourfold. 68% of the subjects declared reduction of the topical treatment. Sleep quality, depressive symptoms and mindfulness improved as well. In conclusion, we demonstrate that this specific training program can potentially be an easy, safe to apply add-on therapy for psoriasis and its comorbidities.

ESDR025 - Combination of breathing exercises, cold exposure, and meditation mitigate psoriasis – open label, randomized, controlled trial

50th Annual Meeting of the European Society for Dermatological Research. VIRTUAL MEETING