Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes joint inflammation and is commonly associated with psoriasis, a skin disease that causes scaly, red patches. PsA causes the immune system to attack healthy joint and skin tissues, leading to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints, along with skin and nail changes.
Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint in the body and can lead to permanent joint damage if left untreated. It typically develops in people with psoriasis but can sometimes occur before skin symptoms appear. Symptoms may come and go in flares, and severity can vary widely from person to person. Early detection and treatment are key to preventing irreversible joint damage.
How Is Psoriatic Arthritis Diagnosed?
- Medical history, especially a personal or family history of psoriasis
- Physical exam of joints, skin, and nails
- Blood tests to rule out other forms of arthritis (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis or gout)
- Imaging (X-rays, ultrasound, or MRI) to assess joint inflammation and damage
Common Symptoms Include:
- Joint pain, tenderness, and swelling (often in fingers, toes, or spine)
- Morning stiffness that lasts more than 30 minutes
- Fatigue and reduced range of motion
- Skin lesions from psoriasis
- Pitted or discolored nails
- Dactylitis (swelling of entire fingers or toes, often called “sausage digits”)
- Eye inflammation (uveitis) in some cases
How Is Psoriatic Arthritis Treated?
There is no cure for PsA, but with proper treatment, most people can manage symptoms and prevent joint damage. The focus is on controlling any inflammation and preserving joint function.
Infusion Therapy at Infusion Specialists
For moderate to severe PsA, especially when oral medications are not effective, biologic infusion therapies offer targeted immune system control. These therapies work by blocking specific pathways in the immune system to reduce joint inflammation and prevent destruction. Your treatments at Infusion Specialists could include:
- TNF inhibitors (e.g., infliximab)
- Interleukin inhibitors (e.g., IL-12/23, IL-17, IL-23 blockers)
Targeted biologics for patients with both joint and skin symptoms
Additional Resources: