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What is it?
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes the skin to
redden, flake and peel. Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory condition
that is associated with psoriasis. For the majority of people the
symptoms are mild. In a few they may be severe. All can benefit
greatly from appropriate treatment.
Whom does it affect?
Psoriatic arthritis affects both men and women and often begins
between the ages of 30 and 50, although it can develop at any age.
Occasionally it may be inherited. It is estimated that about 10%
of people with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis.
Outlook
Whilst psoriatic arthritis is a long lasting or chronic condition,
much can be done to control and reduce its effects.
Types of Psoriatic Arthritis
Generally, psoriatic arthritis can be divided into 5 different types:
1. Arthritis that affects mainly the last joints of the fingers
and/or toes.
2. Arthritis that affects several joints (other than the
spine) and is not necessarily the same on both sides of the body.
3. Arthritis in many joints, similar to rheumatoid arthritis.
It usually affects joints similarly on both sides of the body.
4. Arthritis that occurs in the spinal column. This can result
in inflammation and stiffness of the neck, back, lower back and
around the bottom of the spine.
5. A rare destructive type of arthritis that erodes the bone.
It mainly affects the small joints of the hands and feet, and can
also result in neck and lower back pan.
The Symptoms
The symptoms that occur will be particular to the type of psoriatic
arthritis. They may include:
• Discomfort, stiffness, pain or swelling in one or more joints
• Stiffness and tiredness after prolonged rest
• Swelling of the finger or toe, often termed a "sausage
digit" as the swelling occurs evenly from beginning to end.
• Backache.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis of psoriasis needs firstly to be determined. In making
a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis, the doctor will look at your
medical history and do a physical examination. The doctor may also
order tests such as x-rays and blood tests to help exclude other
conditions, and ask questions about family history.
Management
Depending on how severe the psoriatic arthritis is, treatment may
include:
• Ways to keep the skin condition under control
• Medication for the joints, which usually consists of drugs
that reduce inflammation, but may progress to stronger medication
if required
• Special programs of exercises
• Surgical replacement of severely damaged joints, although
this is not usually required in psoriatic arthritis.
Education and support
A better understanding of psoriatic arthritis will greatly assist
you to make decisions about the management of your condition. The
Arthritis Foundation offers education programs to provide people
with skills and knowledge and the opportunity to meet others in
similar situations. The Arthritis Foundation can also put you in
touch with local support groups or other relevant organizations
and appropriate exercise groups for your condition.
This information sheet was prepared by Jane Motley for Arthritis
Victoria.
The information presented is not intended to replace the medical
advice of your doctor or health care provider. Arthritis SA recommends
that you consult your doctor about specific medical conditions.
Other information and resources available
from Arthritis SA
Psoriatic Arthritis Fact Sheet
• Email advisors@arthritissa.org.au
(please include your postal address in email)
Telephone Advisory Service
9.30am - 3.30pm, Mon - Fri
8379 5711 or country free call on 1800 011 041
Book Sales
Living a Healthy Life with Chronic Conditions by Kate Lorig,
Halsted Holman, David Sobel, Diana Laurent, Virginia Gonzalez and
Marian Minor, 2000
For price and order details please contact Arthritis SA
• 8379 5711 or country free call on 1800 011 041
• Email info@arthritissa.org.au
(please include your name and business hours phone number in email)
Moving Towards Wellness Course
6 weeks x 2.5 hours
click here "Self Management
Courses" for further information
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