Struggling with psoriatic arthritis in Austin? Become a patient at VITAL Rheumatology!

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of inflammatory arthritis that usually occurs in some people who have psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. The inflammation in psoriatic arthritis can lead to joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, which can affect any joint in the body. Some people may also experience fatigue and swelling in areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bones, a condition known as enthesitis.
Diagnosing psoriatic arthritis typically involves a combination of evaluating the your symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. We look for signs of psoriasis on the skin and nails, such as red patches, pitted nails, or other changes. Imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs can help assess joint damage and inflammation. Blood tests may be conducted to rule out other forms of arthritis and confirm the diagnosis.
Treatment for psoriatic arthritis focuses on suppressing the disease and preventing joint damage. In moderate or severe cases, biologic medications may be prescribed to target specific aspects of the immune system. In addition to medications, physical therapy and lifestyle changes, such as regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight, can also help improve joint function and overall well-being. Regular follow-ups are important for monitoring the condition and adjusting treatments as needed.

What are the most common symptoms in psoriatic arthritis?
Common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness, often in the fingers, toes, and spine. Many people also have psoriasis, which causes red, scaly skin patches. The joints may feel swollen and stiff, and some people experience fatigue or tenderness.
How is psoriatic arthritis diagnosed?
Psoriatic arthritis is diagnosed based on symptoms, a physical exam, blood tests, and imaging like X-rays or MRIs. We look for signs of joint inflammation, skin changes from psoriasis, and sometimes test for specific markers, but there isn’t a single test that confirms the disease.
Do people with psoriatic arthritis always have psoriasis?
No, not everyone with psoriatic arthritis has psoriasis, though many people do. In some cases, people may develop arthritis before the skin symptoms of psoriasis appear. Having other conditions like uveitis/iritis of the eyes, Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis, raises the changes of psoriatic arthritis without psoriasis. A family history of these conditions also raises the risk.
Is psoriatic arthritis an autoimmune disease?
Yes, psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease. The immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues, causing inflammation in the joints and skin. This results in pain, swelling, and other symptoms associated with the condition.
What is the difference between psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Both psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are types of inflammatory arthritis, but psoriatic arthritis is usually linked with psoriasis, a skin condition. Rheumatoid arthritis primarily affects the lining of the joints and is typically symmetrical (affecting both sides of the body). Psoriatic arthritis can affect both large and small joints and may not always be symmetrical.
Is there a blood test for psoriatic arthritis?
There is no specific blood test that can diagnose psoriatic arthritis. However, blood tests can help rule out other conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis, and check for signs of inflammation. Sometimes, we look for a marker called HLA-B27, which may be present in people with psoriatic arthritis.
What causes psoriatic arthritis?
The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetics and environmental factors. The immune system plays a role, and certain triggers like infections, stress, or injury can bring on symptoms in people genetically predisposed to the condition.
Does psoriatic arthritis affect the hands and feet?
Yes, psoriatic arthritis commonly affects the fingers and toes, causing swelling, pain, and stiffness. This can result in a condition called "sausage fingers" or "sausage toes" due to the swelling of the joints. The joints in the hands and feet can become damaged over time without treatment.
What medicines treat psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is treated with anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic drugs. Biologics, like TNF inhibitors or IL-17 inhibitors, are often used for moderate to severe cases. Corticosteroids may also be used to control flare-ups.
Does psoriatic arthritis affect the fingernails?
Yes, psoriatic arthritis can affect the fingernails, causing changes such as pitting (small dents), thickening, or separation from the nail bed. Nail changes can be an important clue in diagnosing psoriatic arthritis, especially in people with skin psoriasis.