Psoriatic Arthritis

by KYW's medical editor Dr. Brian McDonough

It is a type of arthritis that affects about 1-3% of the population but few people know about it. It is called psoriatic arthritis.

Unlike the more well known rheumatoid arthritis which affects more women than men, psoriatic arthritis is found equally between men and women. People with psoriatic arthritis have the joint pain and it is commonly seen with the rash of psoriasis. People complain of extreme stiffening and tendonitis is a problem as well. The arthritis seems to attack mostly the lower extremity whereas rheumatoid arthritis affects the upper extremity.

Psoriatic arthritis can be treated with medications - everything from non-steroidals like ibuprofen to methotrexate. Rheumatologists who specialize in conditions like this are often called upon to help with the best suggestions and follow up. Many people ask if they have a bad case of psoriasis does it mean they will be more likely to get arthritis but the answer is no.