Psoriatic arthritis is not as rare as is sometimes believed. It affects approximately 30% of people with psoriasis. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory musculoskeletal disease associated with psoriasis. Psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated skin disease, also known as scaly skin disease. It is characterised by well-defined, slightly raised, inflamed pink skin lesions covered with silvery-white scales that can be easily removed.
Psoriatic arthritis affects men and women equally. PsA can begin at any age and may also affect children. Symptoms most commonly appear between the ages of 30 and 50. In many people, the condition begins approximately 10 years after the onset of psoriasis. However, in some people, PsA develops before the appearance of psoriasis or even without visible signs of psoriasis, which may make timely diagnosis more difficult.
Although the condition cannot currently be cured, an increasing range of treatments is available to help slow its progression, relieve pain, protect the joints and preserve their range of motion. If you have PsA or suspect that you may have it, it is important to consult a rheumatologist promptly so that an appropriate treatment plan can be developed.
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include tenderness, pain or swelling around the tendons, morning stiffness, pain in one or more joints, completely swollen fingers or toes, often referred to as “sausage digits”, and a reduced range of motion in the joints. Symptoms may develop gradually or appear suddenly and severely.
If you think you may have psoriatic arthritis, complete this short five-question screening test:
Have you ever had a swollen joint or joints? Yes / No
Has a doctor ever told you that you have arthritis? Yes / No
Do you have pits in your fingernails or toenails? Yes / No
Have you ever experienced heel pain? Yes / No
Have you ever had a finger or toe that was completely swollen and painful for no apparent reason? Yes / No
If you answered “yes” to at least three questions, make an appointment with a dermatologist to discuss your symptoms. Your dermatologist will determine whether you should also consult a rheumatologist.
If you have questions about psoriatic arthritis or still think you may have it, do not wait until you can answer “yes” to three questions. You may have psoriatic arthritis or another form of arthritis even if you have fewer than three positive answers. Be sure to discuss your symptoms with your general practitioner.
Early recognition, diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis can prevent or limit extensive joint damage that may develop during later stages of the disease and result in serious, irreversible mobility limitations and disability.
If you have confirmed diagnoses of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, you may be eligible for free examinations, long-term care and modern treatment, including biologic medicines, at our dermatology clinic as part of an international clinical trial.
For more information, email [email protected] or call 26288707.
