Psoriasis arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis is a type of arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis – a condition that features red patches of skin topped with silvery scales. Most people develop psoriasis first and are later diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis, but the joint problems can sometimes begin before skin patches appear.

Symptoms

Psoriatic arthritis symptoms and signs include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, as well as reduced range of motion. The condition can affect any part of the body, including the fingertips and spine, and can range from relatively mild to severe. In both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, disease flares may alternate with periods of remission.

Causes

The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. The immune system attacks healthy cells and tissue in the body, leading to inflammation in the joints and overproduction of skin cells.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis involves a physical examination, medical history, and possibly lab tests and imaging scans to rule out other conditions.

Treatment

While there's no cure for psoriatic arthritis, treatment focuses on controlling symptoms and preventing damage to the joints. Options include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), immunosuppressants, and biologic agents. Physical therapy and exercise may also be recommended to maintain joint flexibility and strength.

Epidemiology

Psoriatic arthritis affects men and women equally and can occur at any age, although it most often appears between the ages of 30 and 50. The prevalence of the condition varies worldwide, but it is estimated to affect between 0.3% and 1% of the general population.

See Also

• Psoriasis
• Arthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Spondyloarthritis