Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriasis is a skin infection that affects many people in the United States.



People affected with psoriasis have patchy, raised, reddish areas of skin inflammation with a scaly appearance. Some of these people also develop an inflammation of the joints. This condition is termed psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis generally affects people in their forties and older.



In most cases, psoriasis manifests itself followed by arthritis, however, the reverse has also been observed in some cases.

Psoriatic arthritis is a systemic rheumatic disease. In addition to causing inflammation in the joints, it may also lead to inflammation in other parts of the body such as the eyes, heart, lungs, and kidneys. Why exactly this condition occurs is yet to be answered.



Medical observations seem to suggest that psoriatic arthritis is caused due to a combination of genetic, immune, and environmental factors. However, it will still take some years of medical research before the exact cause of this disease is identified.

The first symptom of psoriatic arthritis is as the name suggests psoriasis. In a couple of months, and sometimes after years, the arthritis kicks in leading to inflammation in joints such as the knees, ankles and joints in the feet. Inflammation may also lead to swelling of the affected joints and a certain amount of stiffness is also experienced.



Psoriatic arthritis may also mimic the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. In some extreme cases it can also lead to rapid destruction of the affected joints. Other symptoms include tendonitis and chest pain. There may also be inflammation in the eyes, lungs and aorta.



The appearance of acne and pitting on the nails are also observed.

There is no laboratory test to diagnose psoriatic arthritis. Diagnosis is based on the clinical symptoms. Blood tests may be carried out to exclude the possibility of rheumatoid arthritis.



Arthrocentesis may also be carried out to analyze the fluid from infected joints for traces infection. X-ray imaging may also be carried out on the affected joints.

Patients suffering from psoriatic arthritis will require treatment for psoriasis as well as the symptoms of arthritis. Treatment for arthritis consists of a system of anti-inflammatory medication and physical therapy. Patients can aid the treatment by regularly performing the exercises that have been prescribed by the physician. Emphasis should be paid on warming up the body prior exercise and perform adequate stretches to cool down the body after an exercise session. Exercise and regular stretching helps to strengthen the muscles and limbs, and helps keep them supple and flexible. Hot showers and heat applications are also very beneficial in aiding treatment.