Psoriatic Arthritis
To understand psoriatic arthritis we must first know what is psoriasis and what is meant by arthritis.
What is Psoriasis?
In simple words, psoriasis is a common autoimmune skin disease characterized by red scaly patches on skin.
What is arthritis?
Arthritis means inflammation (swelling) of joints.
What is psoriatic arthritis?
Some people who have psoriasis may develop inflammation in their joints which is then referred to as psoriatic arthritis. Having said that, it is not compulsory for a person with psoriasis and arthritis to have psoriatic arthritis. A person who has psoriasis may suffer from other types of arthritis like osteoarthritis or gout.
Dr. Laxmi Waprani is the best rheumatologist in Pune, who provides comprehensive care and treatment for psoriatic arthritis. She specializes in providing personalized treatment plans to help her patients restore their quality of life and manage their condition. Dr. Waprani offers a variety of services and treatments, such as lifestyle modifications, medication management, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups. She is a compassionate and patient-focused doctor who is dedicated to helping her patients understand their condition, manage their symptoms, and live a full and healthy life.
Who gets psoriatic arthritis?
About 10- 20 % of people who have psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis. Arthritis usually starts between 30 – 50 yrs of age, but it may begin in childhood also. Psoriasis usually precedes the development of arthritis but in up to 15 % of patients, arthritis may appear before the onset of psoriasis.
Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis :
- Swelling and pain in joints of hands and feet.
- Some people may have back pain due to sacroiliitis, which is swelling in sacroiliac joints.
- Pitting of nails is commonly present in patients of psoriasis who also suffer from psoriatic arthritis.
- Dactylitis: swelling of the digit.
- Entesitis: inflammation of tendons.
Diagnosis of Psoriatic Arthritis
Diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis is made on the basis of clinical signs and symptoms. No single test is confirmatory for the diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis. 50% of patients who have psoriatic arthritis are positive for HLAB27 antigen.
Treatment of Psoriatic Arthritis
Treatment of psoriatic arthritis mainly comprises of
- NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are used to control joint pain and swelling.
- DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs)
Methotrexate, sulfasalazine, and leflunomide are the most commonly used.