Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that develops in people with psoriasis, a form of inflammatory skin disease. Psoriasis is a chronic skin disorder in which the skin loses its normal cycle of shedding and rejuvenating, leading to rapid skin cell growth.
This causes an accumulation of skin cells, which results in the development of raised, reddened patches or plaques, often with silvery scales. PsA is an inflammatory condition in which the joints and tendons, including those in the hands and feet, become swollen, stiff and painful.
The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is not known, but genetics are believed to play a role, as the disease can run in families. Other factors, such as physical trauma, emotional stress, hormonal changes, bacterial and viral infections, and certain medications, can also trigger or worsen the disease.
Although exact numbers are unknown, it is estimated that up to 30% of people with psoriasis will develop PsA, with most developing symptoms 7 to 10 years after their initial psoriasis diagnosis.
The combination of genetic, environmental, and other factors makes it difficult to pin-point the exact cause of PsA in any individual. However, it is important to note that PsA is a long-term, chronic condition that can result in significant joint damage and disability, and it is important to work with a healthcare provider to develop a comprehensive treatment plan.
What condition is frequently associated with psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of chronic, inflammatory arthritis that is often associated with psoriasis, an autoimmune skin disorder that causes red, scaly patches to appear on the skin. It is estimated to affect up to 30% of individuals who have psoriasis.
The condition is most commonly associated with nociceptive pain, which is pain that goes beyond the expected response to a stimulus and is usually described as a deep, aching pain. It is usually located in the joints that are affected by the disease and tends to be worse at night or after being inactive.
It is also often accompanied by swelling and a limited range of motion in the affected joints.
Psoriatic arthritis can affect any joint on the body, most commonly small joints in the fingers and toes. The condition can also cause swelling and pain in the back, neck, ankles, and knees. Other symptoms include fatigue, stiffness after rest, overgrowth of the toe or finger joints, and reduced grip strength.
In more severe cases, eye inflammation (uveitis), blindness, and heart valve problems can occur.
The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is still unknown, but it is believed to be influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Treatment typically focuses on controlling inflammation, pain, and disability.
This usually involves medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic therapy, and in severe cases, corticosteroids.
Is psoriatic arthritis genetic or hereditary?
Psoriatic arthritis is neither genetic nor hereditary. There is evidence to suggest that genetics play a role in the development of psoriatic arthritis, as it often runs in families. However, the actual cause is unknown, and it is not possible to inherit the condition from a parent.
In general, psoriatic arthritis is an immune-mediated disease, meaning that the body attacks its own tissues. Studies have shown that certain genetic variants may play a role in psoriatic arthritis, but there is still a lot of research to be done on the topic.
It is thought that environmental factors and lifestyle choices can also contribute to the development of the condition.
While it is unknown whether genetic factors are directly responsible for the onset of psoriatic arthritis, some individuals seem to be more likely to develop the condition based on family history and other contributing genetic factors.
It is important to note, however, that having a family history of psoriatic arthritis is not necessarily indicative of inheriting the condition – it only increases the risk.
Ultimately, while the exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown, it is not considered to be either genetic or hereditary. Instead, a combination of genetic factors and environmental influences may be responsible for the development of the condition.
Does psoriatic arthritis run in families?
Yes, psoriatic arthritis (PsA) does have a genetic component and tends to run in families. An estimated 10 to 25 percent of people with PsA have a first-degree relative, such as a parent or sibling, who has the condition.
Studies have found that having a family member with PsA can increase a person’s risk for developing the condition. Researchers suspect that certain genetic mutations or combinations may make some people more likely to develop PsA than others.
They believe that these genes may be inherited from both parents, though the exact genetic mechanisms are still unknown. There is evidence to suggest that autoimmunity, especially other types of arthritis, is more common in people who have a family history of PsA.
It is important to note, however, that having a family member with PsA does not guarantee that you will develop it.
Can I live a normal life with psoriatic arthritis?
Yes, you can live a normal life with psoriatic arthritis. It is important to take steps to reduce inflammation and manage symptoms to keep the condition under control. The treatments available for psoriatic arthritis include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, biologic therapies and physical therapy.
Your healthcare provider will choose the option best suited to your individual needs.
It is also important to maintain a healthy lifestyle and keep active. Regular physical activity can help keep joints flexible and muscles strong. Eating a healthy diet and avoiding triggers are also important.
If these steps are taken in conjunction with prescribed treatments, living a normal life with psoriatic arthritis is possible.
Do I have a weakened immune system if I have psoriatic arthritis?
It is possible to have a weakened immune system if you have psoriatic arthritis, as psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. An autoimmune disorder occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues.
This process can lead to inflammation and damage, which in turn makes it more difficult for the immune system to fight off infection. Additionally, some medications used to treat psoriatic arthritis can also have an effect on the immune system, making it slower to respond to germs, bacteria, and viruses.
It is important to talk to your doctor if you suspect that you have a weakened immune system as a result of having psoriatic arthritis. They will be able to assess your situation and recommend any treatments that may be necessary to help strengthen your immune system.
Some lifestyle changes can also help, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough rest. Additionally, regular screening for infections is important for those with psoriatic arthritis to help prevent serious illness.
Is psoriatic arthritis more severe than rheumatoid?
The severity of psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can differ depending on each individual case. Generally speaking, however, psoriatic arthritis is usually more severe than rheumatoid arthritis.
One indicator of psoriatic arthritis being more severe is the degree of joint destruction it causes. Studies have found that psoriatic arthritis causes more destruction of joints and surrounding tissues compared to rheumatoid arthritis.
Additionally, people with psoriatic arthritis may experience more pain and swelling than people with rheumatoid arthritis. Other factors, such as the amount of chronic inflammation, can also make psoriatic arthritis more severe than rheumatoid arthritis.
Other general differences between the two conditions include the duration of symptoms—psoriatic arthritis has a longer duration—and the number of joints affected—most people with psoriatic arthritis have more joints affected than those with rheumatoid arthritis.
Psoriatic arthritis can also cause fatigue, eye irritation and mental stress, whereas rheumatoid arthritis generally does not. Ultimately, the extent to which psoriatic arthritis is more severe than rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person.