Psoriatic Arthritis
Description
Arthritis that occurs in patients with psoriasis. The rash of psoriasis usually appears before the joint pain. The disease most often affects patients between the age of 30-50. 1 in 20 patients with psoriasis develop this form of arthritis. The arthritis is usually mild but in some patients can be severe and debilitating.
Symptoms
Pain and swelling of the fingers and toes. Other joints such as the feet and back can be affected as well.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be done. X-rays, an MRI and an analysis of joint fluid may be performed.
Treatment
There is no cure for this disorder but the pain and swelling can be treated with medications. Medications used include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, disease modifying medications. immunosuppressant medications, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) inhibitors.
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