Psoriasis, a rough, scaly patch type of rash, is a skin condition which commonly appears on the scalp, elbows and knees. People with Psoriasis can also have problems with their toes, fingernails and/or eyes, although it is not contagious. While the cause of Psoriasis is unknown, its is thought that a weakened immune system is a risk factor for developing Psoriasis. Related to this skin condition Psoriatic arthritis is a debilitating disease which causes pain and swelling in joints as well as scaly skin patches on the body. Around 25% of people who have Psoriasis tend to develop this type of arthritis. Although occurring at any age, in both men and women, Psoriatic arthritis is most common between the ages of 20 and 50. In around 15% of cases of Psoriatic arthritis, the arthritis part of the disease is first to appear.
There are five sub-categories of pPsoriatic arthritis and it's possible to have one or more type. Asymmetric arthritis, the mildest and most common form, usually affects only one to three joints, often the knee, hip, ankle or wrist. Symmetric arthritis, similar to rheumatoid arthritis, although it is mostly milder. Multiple joints on both sides of the body can be affected. Distal Interphalangeal Predominant, often mistaken for Osteoarthritis normally affects the last joint of the fingers and toes. Psoriatic Spondyloarthritis, is a rare but serious condition that causes posture deformity. The most common symptom is inflammation of the spine. Arthritis Mutilans occurs in less than 5% of people with psoriatic arthritis. Generally the small joints in the hands and feet are affected and it can destroy the bones and cartilage.
Psoriatic arthritis
