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Alternative names Return to top
Arthritis - psoriaticDefinition Return to top
Psoriatic arthritis is an arthritis that is associated with psoriasis of the skin.Causes, incidence, and risk factors Return to top
Psoriasis is a common, chronic skin condition that causes red patches on the body. About 1 in 20 individuals with psoriasis will develop arthritis along with the skin condition. In the majority of cases, psoriasis comes before the arthritis.Symptoms Return to top
Signs and tests Return to top
During a physical examination, the doctor will identify skin lesions, tenderness, and swelling of joints. Joint x-rays may be performed.Treatment Return to top
Treatment of psoriatic arthritis involves medication, patient education, and physical and occupational therapy.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) or salicylates are used to reduce the pain and inflammation of the joints. More severe arthritis requires treatment with more powerful drugs called disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS). Occasionally, particularly painful joints may be injected with steroid medications. Psoriasis treatment is usually continued or started.
Rarely, surgery to repair or replace damaged joints will be performed.
Get rest and exercise. To increase mobility, physical therapy provides exercise programs for specific joints. Heat and cold applications, or hydrotherapy may also be used.
Expectations (prognosis) Return to top
The course of the disease is often mild and affects only a few joints. In those with severe arthritis, treatment is usually very successful in alleviating the pain.Complications Return to top
Repeated episodes may occur.Calling your health care provider Return to top
Call for an appointment with your health care provider if arthritis symptoms develop along with psoriasis.Prevention Return to top
There is no proven prevention of psoriatic arthritis. Update Date: 8/3/2003 Updated by: Megan Clowse, M.D., Division of Rheumatology, Johns Hopkins Hospital, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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Page last updated: 28 October 2004 |