Mucosal architecture of the small bowel in cases of psoriasis.

Using a strictly defined grading system to eliminate subjective assessment of mucosal architecture, the jejunal mucosa from cases of extensive psoriasis has been shown to be significantly different from that of normal controls obtained both in life and at postmortem examination. The same changes, however, are shown to occur in patients who are ill and losing weight for reasons other than psoriasis. Diminshed lactose utilization, demonstrated in extensive psoriasis, supports the suggestion of a decreased mucosal surface area in this disease.