Sleap Apnea and Elevated TNF

Hi folks,

I ran across a website that caught my attention. It mentions that people with sleep apnea have been shown to have elevated Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha.

I currently have Plaque Psoriasis and take Enbrel shots. Enbrel reduces the production of TNF-Alpha. I wonder if having untreated sleep apnea for so many years caused me to develope psoriasis at the age of 41.

Here is blurb from the website.

"Researchers have reported high levels of certain immune factors called tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in people with sleep apnea, particularly those who are obese. High levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6 produce a damaging inflammatory response, which can harm cells in the body, including those in the arteries. Elevated TNF-alpha was associated in one study with fatigue, shortness of breath, and a weak heart-pumping action."

Has anyone here develped psoriasis while untreated for sleep apnea?

Regards,

Titrator

Totally ignoring the spam above me (kinda glad it was bumped up)
YES I have developed psoriasis...it first happened 6 years ago, when I was really not being too serious about the CPAP. I was off more than on. I was 46 years old at the time. Have it on my hands mainly, a little in my ears, and a little bit on the inside of my eyelids. Interesting....

Titrator,

This is very interesting. I've had skin problems for years, with various diagnosis including psoriasis. I wonder if it's one of those warning signs for undiagnosed OSA.

What was the web site you quoted?

This is an interesting topic to me as well. I have been slowly developing minor skin problems (never sought diagnosis) and it does not surprise me that it could be symptomatic of OSA.

SB

I have psoriasis on my scalp and my legs.