User:Mr. Ibrahem/Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term inflammatory arthritis that occurs in people affected by psoriasis. Various number of joints may be involved. Symptoms often include swelling of entire fingers and toes resulting in a sausage-like appearance. There may be changes to the nails such as small depressions (pitting), thickening, or detachment from the nailbed. Skin changes of psoriasis (red, scaly, and itchy patches) occur in 85% before the onset of arthritis.

The cause is related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors. A third to a half have a relative with psoriasis. Approximately 25% to 50% have the HLA-B27 genotype. It is also associated with obesity and hypertension. It is classified as a type of spondyloarthropathy. Diagnosis is based on symptoms.

Treatment of mild disease may be with NSAIDs while more severe disease may be treated with methotrexate or TNF inhibitors. Other measures may include physiotherapy. Significant disability can result.

Psoriatic arthritis affects 0.3% to 1% of people (up to 30% of those with psoriasis). This includes both children and adults. Males and females are affected equally frequently. It is less common in people of Asian or African descent. It was first clearly described in 1973.