Overview
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that affects some individuals who have psoriasis, a disease characterized by red patches of skin topped with silvery scales. Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling are the primary symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, which can affect any part of the body, including the fingertips and spine. The signs and symptoms can range from mild to severe, and disease flares can alternate with periods of remission. There is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but treatments aim to control symptoms and prevent joint damage.
Understanding the disease
Symptoms
The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, affecting any part of the body, including the fingertips and spine. Psoriatic arthritis can also cause swollen fingers and toes, foot pain, lower back pain, nail changes, and eye inflammation. Symptoms can resemble those of rheumatoid arthritis but may involve areas beyond the joints, such as the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, kidneys, salivary glands, nerve tissue, bone marrow, and blood vessels.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, including:
- Having psoriasis: Having psoriasis is the single greatest risk factor for developing psoriatic arthritis.
- Family history: Many people with psoriatic arthritis have a parent or a sibling with the disease.
- Age: Although anyone can develop psoriatic arthritis, it occurs most often in adults between the ages of 30 and 55. It's important to note that genetic and environmental factors may also play a role in the immune system response associated with psoriatic arthritis.
Development
Psoriatic arthritis develops when the body's immune system attacks healthy cells and tissue, causing inflammation in the joints and overproduction of skin cells. This immune response is likely influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Many people with psoriatic arthritis have a family history of either psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis, and researchers have identified certain genetic markers associated with the condition. Physical trauma or environmental factors, such as a viral or bacterial infection, may also trigger psoriatic arthritis in individuals with an inherited tendency.
Assessment and Diagnosis
Triage
You should see a doctor if psoriatic arthritis is suspected. If you have psoriasis and develop joint pain, or if you are experiencing joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, it is important to inform your doctor. Early diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis are crucial to prevent joint damage and maintain an optimal quality of life.
Diagnosis
No single test can confirm a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis. Your doctor might perform a physical exam to check for signs of swelling, tenderness in your joints, and abnormalities in your fingernails. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, can help pinpoint changes in the joints that occur in psoriatic arthritis but not in other arthritic conditions. Additionally, laboratory tests like rheumatoid factor (RF) and joint fluid tests can be used to rule out other causes of joint pain and help distinguish between psoriatic arthritis and other types of arthritis.
Management and Treatment
Complications
Potential complications of psoriatic arthritis include the development of arthritis mutilans, a severe and disabling form of the disease that destroys small bones in the hands, particularly the fingers, leading to permanent deformity and disability. Psoriatic arthritis can also increase the risk of hypertension, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Preparing for medical consultation
To prepare for an appointment for psoriatic arthritis, you can:
- Make a list of your symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment.
- Note any key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes.
- Create a list of all medications, vitamins, or supplements you are currently taking.
- Consider bringing a family member or friend to the appointment for support and to help remember important details.
- Prepare a list of questions to ask your healthcare provider, such as:
- What's the most likely cause of my symptoms?
- Are there other possible causes for my symptoms?
- What kinds of tests do I need? Do these tests require any special preparation?
- What treatment options are available for psoriatic arthritis?
- What do you recommend for me? By being well-prepared and actively participating in your appointment, you can ensure that you receive the most appropriate care and guidance for your condition.