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