Profiles of Inflammatory Markers Differ by Body Mass Index in Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Psoriasis, and Psoriatic Arthritis
By
Stephen A. Shields
Ann Von Holle
Ruthvik Padival
Joseph F. Merola
Rachael Zuckerman
Jeff T. Mohl
Elizabeth L. Ciemins
July 17, 2026
Clinical Scorecard: Profiles of Inflammatory Markers Differ by Body Mass Index in Crohn’s Disease, Ulcerative Colitis, Psoriasis, and Psoriatic Arthritis
At a Glance
Category Detail
Condition Immune-mediated inflammatory diseases (IMIDs) Key Mechanisms Obesity-associated chronic low-grade inflammation affecting systemic inflammatory markers. Target Population Adults with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, or psoriatic arthritis. Care Setting Real-world clinical settings using electronic health record data.
Key Highlights
Patients with obesity showed significantly elevated CRP and ESR compared to healthy-weight counterparts. Elevations in inflammatory markers persisted over five years in most cohorts. Ferritin showed near null associations across all conditions. Guideline-Based Recommendations
Diagnosis
Monitor CRP, ESR, and ferritin levels in patients with IMIDs. Management
Consider weight optimization as part of comprehensive IMID management. Monitoring & Follow-up
Longitudinal assessment of inflammatory markers is recommended. Risks
Obesity is associated with more complicated disease courses and poorer outcomes in IMIDs. Patient & Prescribing Data
Adults with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, psoriasis, or psoriatic arthritis.
Patients with obesity and IMIDs may have diminished response to biologic therapies.
Clinical Best Practices
Regularly assess BMI and inflammatory markers in patients with IMIDs. Implement strategies for weight management in patients with obesity and IMIDs. Related Resources & Content
