Psoriatic arthritis

Definition

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation of the skin (psoriasis) and joints (arthritis). It results from an aberrant immune response attacking healthy tissue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Psoriatic arthritis often develops in individuals who already have psoriasis, a skin condition marked by red, scaly patches.
2. The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown, but genetic, environmental, and immunological factors are believed to play a role.
3. Common symptoms include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and reduced range of motion.
4. Diagnosis typically involves clinical evaluation, imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs, and laboratory tests including inflammatory markers like ESR and CRP.
5. Treatment may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents targeting specific immune pathways.

Review Questions

• What are the primary symptoms associated with psoriatic arthritis?
• Which diagnostic tools are commonly used to identify psoriatic arthritis?
• What types of treatments are available for managing psoriatic arthritis?

Related terms

Autoimmune Disease: A condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues.

Psoriasis: A chronic skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches due to rapid skin cell production.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: An autoimmune disorder causing chronic inflammation of joints and other areas of the body.