There is growing evidence that psoriasis is a systemic disorder which enhances atherosclerosis and the risk of cardiovascular disease. Epidemiological studies have shown an independent association between psoriasis and atherosclerosis, stroke and coronary artery disease. The main goal of this on-going study is to register data which will enable the identification of new markers of atherosclerosis activity and carotid plaque instability in patients with severe psoriasis.

Inclusion Criteria:

• >18 years old, psoriasis for more than 5 years, moderate to severe psoriasis (PASI >10 or systemic treatment)

Exclusion Criteria:

• familiar hypercholesterolemia, ongoing infections and cancer disease

Patients who have had psoriasis for more than 5 years are being admitted to the study. The assessments include: clinical data, treatment, platelet aggregation and blood viscosity, serum markers and mediators of atherosclerosis, carotid IMT and plaque burden assessed by Color Duplex ultrasound. The patients are recruited from our dermatological department (in and outdoor patients)