What Is Psoriatic Arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a form of chronic arthritis that causes joint pain as well skin symptoms that closely resemble symptoms of psoriasis.

Psoriatic arthritis is similar to rheumatoid arthritis in that it causes pain, stiffness, and swelling in the joints and can result in joint damage. Psoriatic arthritis also stems from immune system malfunction.

However, unlike rheumatoid arthritis, symptoms of psoriatic arthritis may include skin rashes, itching, flaking, and inflammation of the skin. Psoriatic arthritis also tends to settle in the joints of the hands and feet. Both skin and joint symptoms may range from mild to severe.

Who is at risk for psoriatic arthritis?

About one in four people with psoriasis may have psoriatic arthritis. The disease affects men and women equally and usually occurs in individuals in their 30s, 40s, and 50s. Psoriatic arthritis can also occur in children. This is referred to as juvenile psoriatic arthritis.

The exact cause of the condition is unknown but may be based on hereditary and environmental factors. Stress, skin injury, infection, or reaction to medication may serve as a trigger effect. Ongoing research and new discoveries are giving doctors a greater understanding of what causes psoriatic arthritis and how to better manage its symptoms.

Next: What Are the Symptoms?