Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that occurs in some people who suffer from psoriasis, a chronic skin condition. Like other types of arthritis, it is characterized by pain, inflammation, and stiffness of the joints. It affects up to 8% of people with psoriasis, [1] and occurs more frequently in men than in women, and usually develops at the age of 30-50.
Being an autoimmune disease, psoriatic arthritis occurs when the immune system attacks the joints. The cause remains unknown, but genetic and environmental factors have been associated with its development.
There are five main types of psoriatic arthritis:
- Symmetric arthritis. This is one of the most common types of psoriatic arthritis. It affects the same joints on both sides of the body, and is similar to rheumatoid arthritis.
- Asymmetric arthritis. This affects any joint, usually fewer than five, and does not occur on both sides of the body. It is also less severe.
- Distal interphalangeal predominant (DIP). This is a rare type that affects the distal joints of the fingers and toes.
- Spondylitis. This occurs in 5% of the patients, and affects the spinal column, thus causing back pain.
- Arthritis mutilans. This is a severe form that can cause deformities to the fingers and toes.
Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic condition that may lead to a debilitating joint damage. The disease may stay in remission for a period of time, and relapse at any time. In severe cases, the disease may affect the fingers, toes, and spine.
No cure exists, but there are treatments that focus on alleviating the symptoms of the condition and preventing joint damage. NSAIDs, painkillers, and steroids are used to treat pain and inflammation. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are used to prevent joint damage. TNF-alpha inhibitors are used in severe cases to reduce joint damage and alleviate symptoms.
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