Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that occurs in approximately 20% of people who have (or will develop) a skin problem called psoriasis. Joint symptoms may occur before, at the same time, or after you get skin symptoms from psoriasis. The arthritis causes joints (like fingers and toes) to become swollen, tender, and painful. The body's own defense (immune) system attacks the joints. There is no specific laboratory test to diagnose psoriatic arthritis, so it is evaluated by clinical features which must be recognized by a qualified healthcare provider.
Treatments for Psoriatic Arthritis
To relieve symptoms and prevent damage to your joints, treatments include medications as well as physical and occupational therapy. For severe arthritis, many of the rheumatoid arthritis disease-modifying drugs are used (such as methotrexate), or TNF blockers. New therapies are also being developed, such as the PDE4 inhibitor (Otezla). Steroid injections or pills may also be given to relieve joint pain and inflammation. A physical therapist may help you move and stay active, build your strength, learn to manage daily tasks, and reduce overall pain.
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