Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic disease that causes inflammation of the skin and joints. General symptoms include patchy, raised, red areas of skin inflammation with scaling on various areas of the body. It is considered a systemic disease, meaning that it can affect other areas of the body as well. Psoriatic arthritis has no cure, and the goal of treatment is to help control symptoms and prevent complications where possible.
Dactylitis
Complications can develop from psoriatic arthritis, even with proper treatment, the Mayo Clinic states. One of these complications includes swelling of the fingers and toes that is often accompanied by pain. In severe cases, the swelling can spread into the hands and feet and it can lead to disability. Anti-inflammatory medications and corticosteroids can help control the inflammation and pain.
Heart Disease
In a 2006 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, Dr. Joel M. Gelfand and his colleagues at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that psoriasis increases the risk for a heart attack. The more severe the psoriasis, the greater the risk of heart disease. More research is still needed to understand the connection, however. The National Psoriasis Foundation suggests that patients should educate themselves on the risk factors for heart disease, then take steps to lower their own risks. Choosing healthy lifestyle behaviors should be part of an overall treatment plan to prevent heart-related complications.
Psoriatic Spondylitis
Psoriatic arthritis can sometimes affect the spine, the Spondylitis Association of America says. About 20 percent of people will feel effects in the spine. This complication occurs as the spinal column becomes inflamed. In severe cases, the vertebra or bones of the spine can fuse together, which limits mobility. Psoriatic arthritis affects each person differently. For some, it remains mild; in other cases, it becomes more severe. Not all symptoms or complications occur in every patent. Medication and physical therapy can help to control symptoms and possibly limit disability.
Arthritis Mutilans
Arthritis mutilans is a rare complication of psoriatic arthritis, affecting only about 5 percent of patients. This term refers to a condition in which the arthritis attacks several joints and causes widespread destruction. It most commonly occurs in the hands and feet. It can affect the nails of the fingers and toes, and they may eventually develop pits or crumble completely.
