Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic Arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis. Psoriasis is 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.

Causes

The cause of psoriatic arthritis isn't known, but it's believed to involve a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. In particular, people with certain genetic markers are more likely to develop the condition.

Symptoms

Psoriatic arthritis can affect different joints in the body. The signs and symptoms can vary widely but may include:

• Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
• Reduced range of motion
• Changes in fingernails and toenails, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed
• General fatigue
• Redness and pain in the eye, such as uveitis

Diagnosis

There is no definitive test for psoriatic arthritis. The diagnosis is typically made based on the symptoms and a physical examination, including medical history and possibly imaging or lab tests.

Treatment

Treatment for psoriatic arthritis can include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents. Physical therapy may also be beneficial.

See also

• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Ankylosing spondylitis