[7] Psoriatic Arthritis Flashcards
What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term inflammation arthritis that occurs in people affected by the autoimmune disease psoriasis.
What % of people with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis?
About 30%
What joints are affected in psoriatic arthritis?
The joints at the end of the fingers are most commonly affected, however the wrists, knees, and ankles can also be involved.
What comes first, the psoriasis or the arthritis?
In most cases (but not always), the psoriasis will precede the arthritis, sometimes by may years
What are the joint symptoms in psoriatric arthritis often accompanied by?
Symptoms in fingernails and toenails
What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis?
- Swelling of entire fingers and toes, with sausage like appearance
- Changes to nails, such as pitting, thickening, and detatchment from nailbed
- Classic symptoms of arthritis, including general joint pain and stiffness (especially in morning), joint swelling, reduced range of motion etc
- Classic symptoms of psoriasis, including psoriatic skin lesions
- Generalised fatigue
How is a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis made?
There is no definitive test to diagnose psoriatic arthritis, so diagnosis is made on the basis of examination, history, and blood tests
What factors contribute to a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis?
- Psoriasis in teh patient, or family history of psoriasis/psoriatric arthritis
- Negative test for rheumatoid factor
- Arthritis symptoms
- Fingernail changes
- Radiological images showing degenerative changes
What are the management options in psoriatic arthritis?
- NSAIDs
- DMARDs
- Biological agents
- Low-level laser therapy
- Corticosteroid injections
- Joint surgery
Both the skin and joint components of psoriatic arthritis must be treated
When are NSAIDs used in psoriatic arthritis?
In milder cases, if they are sufficient
What are the first line NSAIDs in psoriatic arthritis?
Ibuprofen and naproxen
What are the second line NSAIDs in psoriatic arthritis?
Stronger agents such as diclofenac and indamethacin
What should be co-prescribed with NSAIDs in psoriatic arthritis?
PPI
What can be prescribed as an alternative to NSAIDs in psoriatic arthritis?
COX-2 inhibitors
What is the advantage of COX-2 inhibitors over NSAIDs?
There is less of a risk of GI ulcers or bleeding