Evaluation of the Impact of Night Shift Work on Disease Severity in Psoriatic Patients: A Case-Control Study with Clinical, Hormonal, and Immunological Evaluation

Abstract

Introduction: Night shift work disrupts circadian rhythms and has been associated with immune system alterations and various health conditions. However, there is limited data regarding its impact on psoriasis. The aim of our study was to compare psoriasis severity and the hormonal and immunological profile in patients with a night shift work to those with a daytime occupation. Methods: In this case-control study, we enrolled psoriatic patients aged >18 years engaged in night shift work and a control group of psoriatic patients with a daytime occupation. A further categorization was performed by the duration of nightshift work: < or ≥ 7 days a month and < or ≥ 8 years. Disease severity was evaluated by PASI, BSA and DLQI and blood samples were taken to measure various hormonal and immunological markers. Univariable and multivariable analysis were performed to assess differences between the two groups. Results: A total of 40 night shift workers were included, along with 36 patients in the control group. Patients who worked nightshifts at least 7 days a month had significantly higher PASI scores (11.2 ± 6.6 vs 8.5 ± 6.6; p 0.04) and higher IL-8 serum (115.33 ± 463.65 pg/ml vs 19.98 ± 29.78 pg/ml; p = 0.006) compared to patients who didn’t. Night shifts workers for at least 8 years had higher BMI (28.65±4.56 versus 25.32±5.50, p=0.010), and females had higher testosterone levels (0.46±0.53 ng/mL vs. 0.23±0.13 ng/mL; p = 0.055). Conclusion: Night shift might increase psoriasis severity and have an impact on chronic inflammation, obesity and hormonal imbalances.