How inflammation in the body affects depression in skin and joint disease

This research is exploring why people with psoriatic disease (psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis) often experience depression, and whether a medication called secukinumab, bimekizumab, or Ixekizumab can help with both the physical disease and depressive symptoms. These medications work by targeting a specific inflammatory pathway in the body. Researchers will use advanced brain imaging to see if treating the inflammation also changes brain patterns linked to depression.

About 30–40% of people with psoriatic disease struggle with depression, which worsens their quality of life and makes treatment harder to stick with. Recent research suggests that the inflammation causing the skin and joint symptoms may also be affecting the brain and contributing to depression. This study aims to understand this connection so doctors can better help patients with both conditions.