Archives of Dermatological Research · Oct 30, 2026
Elevated risk of atrial fibrillation in patients with psoriasis: an updated systematic review and meta-analysis
By Hazique M, Banda SV, Rizwan R et al.
Abstract Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin condition that is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. However, the association between psoriasis and atrial fibrillation (AF) is unclear. This meta-analysis investigates the relationship between psoriasis and atrial fibrillation (AF). A systematic search was conducted across multiple databases until December 2024 following the PRISMA guidelines. Observational studies assessing psoriasis and AF association were included. Quality assessment of included studies was done according to the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Pooled hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using a random effects approach. The subgroup analyses by psoriasis severity, age, quality, and region were conducted. Publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger’s regression. Eight studies (11,579,730 participants; 277,597 with psoriasis) were analyzed. Psoriasis was associated with higher AF risk (HR: 1.27; 95% CI: 1.17–1.38, p < 0.05). Severe psoriasis (HR: 1.32) and older patients with mean age ≥ 45 years (HR: 1.32) showed numerically higher point estimates. Regional analysis revealed comparable risks in Asia (HR: 1.27) and non-Asia (HR: 1.28), although none of the between-subgroup differences (by severity, age, or region) reached statistical significance ( p > 0.05). No significant publication bias was found. This meta-analysis supports an association between psoriasis and increased AF risk. Point estimates were numerically higher in severe psoriasis and in older cohorts, but no between-subgroup difference reached statistical significance, and substantial heterogeneity limits the certainty of these findings. Further research is needed to validate these findings and explore underlying mechanisms.