Analysis: HS-Related Genetic Markers Predict Cardiometabolic Outcomes

A new cohort study suggests individuals with a high polygenic risk score (PRS) for hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) have an increased risk of developing coronary artery disease (CAD) and diabetes. 

Study researchers used data from 391,481 participants of European ancestry in the UK Biobank, enrolling participants between 2006 and 2010, and conducting follow-up out to 2023. They looked specifically at correlations between HS susceptibility and cardiometabolic traits using linkage disequilibrium score regression. The PRS for HS was the primary study exposure, and the outcomes of interest were CAD and diabetes diagnosis measured by logistical regressions. 

The analysis results showed a significant genetic correlation between HS susceptibility and cardiometabolic conditions, including CAD, diabetes, and associated plasma biomarkers. Genetic variants linked to HS showed significant associations with higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, and C-reactive protein (CRP). Logistic regression models indicated that individuals in the high-risk group had a 1.09-fold increased risk of CAD (95% CI, 1.06-1.12; P < 0.001) and a 1.13-fold increased odds of diabetes (95% CI, 1.10-1.17; P < 0.001) compared with those in the low-risk group.

"These findings suggest that a high genetic risk of HS is associated with increased risk of subsequent CAD and diabetes and altered composition of the plasma proteome," the authors wrote in their conclusion. "Additional investigation into the identified proteins and their potential roles as drug targets is warranted."

Source: Nielsen VW, et al. JAMA Dermatology. 2024. Doi:10.1001/jamadermatol.2024.3779