Psoriatic Arthritis ; Definition, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment

Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory arthritis that affects some people who have psoriasis, a condition that causes red patches of skin topped with silvery scales. Here are some key points:

Symptoms
Joint Pain and Stiffness: Pain, stiffness, and swelling in joints, which can affect any part of the body, including fingers, toes, and the spine.

Sausage-like Swelling: Swollen fingers and toes, giving them a sausage-like appearance.

Nail Changes: Nails may develop tiny dents (pits), crumble, or separate from the nail bed.

Skin Rashes: Red, scaly patches on the skin, often associated with psoriasis.

Eye Inflammation: Uveitis, causing eye pain, redness, and blurry vision.

Causes
Autoimmune Condition: The body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues.

Genetics: Family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis can increase the risk.

Environmental Factors: Physical trauma or certain infections may trigger the condition.

Diagnosis
Medical History: Reviewing symptoms and family history.

Physical Examination: Assessing joint pain, skin rashes, and nail changes.

Laboratory Tests: Blood tests and imaging studies to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment
Medications: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologics to reduce inflammation and prevent joint damage.

Physical Therapy: Exercises to maintain joint function and mobility.

Lifestyle Changes: Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and avoiding smoking to manage symptoms and improve overall health.

Prognosis
Chronic Condition: Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term condition that can flare up and then go into remission.

Management: With proper treatment, many people can manage their symptoms and maintain a good quality of life

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