Psoriatic Arthritis

Overview

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory joint disease associated with psoriasis, belonging to the seronegative spondyloarthropathies. Arthritis develops on the basis of skin psoriasis, causing joint pain, swelling, and deformity, sometimes involving the spine.

Symptoms

• Joint swelling and pain
• Skin psoriasis
• Nail changes
• Morning stiffness
• Dactylitis (sausage digits)

Treatment

Treatment mainly uses NSAIDs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, and biologics, with attention to skin lesions.

Dietary advice

A light, balanced diet with weight control; avoid alcohol and spicy, irritating foods.