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How does psoriatic arthritis occur?

Like psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease, meaning that it is caused by the immune system acting against healthy cells. In psoriasis, the immune system attacks the skin cells, whereas in psoriatic arthritis the tendons and linings around the joints are affected. The resulting inflammation causes these linings to thicken; over time, this affects joint function and structure.

FAQ Frequently asked questions

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation of the joints, making them stiff, painful and swollen. It mostly occurs in people with psoriasis between the ages of 30 and 50, but can develop at any age. Symptoms vary from person to person and may …

Are there different types of psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis tends to fall into one of five main types depending on the location of symptoms. These subtypes are asymmetric arthritis, symmetric arthritis, spondylitis, distal interphalangeal predominant (DIP) and arthritis mutilans.

What is the connection between spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis?

Spondylitis is inflammation of the joints and discs in the spine, which can arise from psoriatic arthritis. It causes stiffness in the neck or lower back and difficulties with movement. The spondylitis subtype of psoriatic …

What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis generally develops about 10 years after psoriasis first appears. It may be mild and involve only a few joints, or may be severe and affect multiple joints, including those of the spine. The most common symptoms are pain and …

Does psoriasis always lead to psoriatic arthritis?

Some estimates suggest that no more than one in five people with psoriasis go on to develop psoriatic arthritis. However, some degree of joint damage may be present in up to two in five people within this group. In rare cases, it is also …

What complications can arise from psoriatic arthritis?

In rare cases, psoriatic arthritis may progress to its more serious subtype, known as arthritis mutilans. This condition causes the small bones in the hands to wear away over time, resulting in permanent deformity and disability. …

How is psoriatic arthritis diagnosed?

Your doctor will diagnose psoriatic arthritis by looking for swollen and painful joints and asking you about your personal and family medical history. The skin, nails and scalps will also be examined, particularly if underlying psoriasis is yet to be …

What are the treatment options for psoriatic arthritis?

As there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, the goals of treatment are to reduce joint pain and swelling, prevent further damage to the joints and minimize disability. To achieve these goals, a combination of self-care, medications …

Is surgery a common treatment for psoriatic arthritis?

When a joint becomes very damaged, your doctor may recommend replacing it with an artificial one made from metal and plastic. Hips and knees are replaced most often, but shoulders, fingers, ankles and elbows can also be replaced. …

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Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that causes inflammation of the lining of joints, resulting in swelling, pain, stiffness and, over time, gradual joint damage. Fortunately, early treatment and appropriate physical activity can improve quality of life.…
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Gout

Gout is an acutely painful condition that usually affects the big toe. It occurs when uric acid crystals form in certain joints, leading to inflammation, pain and swelling. Medications and changes in behaviour can reduce the likelihood of future gout episodes.…
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Arthritis

Arthritis refers to inflammation of joints. This can lead to stiffness, swelling and pain and may be due to a joint condition, an infection or an autoimmune condition. Most arthritis is chronic, however adhering to treatment plans and some modification of activities can help maintain an active lifestyle.…
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Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis affects the cartilage in synovial joints, usually in the hands, big toes, knees, hips and spine. As cartilage breaks down, bones in the joints rub against one another, causing pain, stiffness, swelling and bony spurs. Treatment options are available to help manage symptoms.…
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Septic arthritis

Septic arthritis is an infection of a joint, making it red, warm and painful. The condition requires immediate treatment, including high doses of antibiotics. If not treated promptly, it can cause permanent damage to the joint.…
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Psoriasis

Psoriasis occurs when the immune system attacks healthy skin cells by mistake, causing patches of skin to become dry, scaly and itchy. It’s a long-term condition that tends to flare up and then fade in cycles.…

About this article

Author: Jonathan Meddings BMedLabSc (Hons)
First answered: 26 Nov 2014
Last reviewed: 19 May 2018
Rating: 4.8 out of 5
Votes: 1195 (Click smiley face below to rate)
Category: Rheumatoid arthritis

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