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  Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory disease that affects the joints. Mostly, only people who have a skin disease called psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, but occasionally psoriatic arthritis develops when there is no skin psoriasis.

What causes psoriatic arthritis?

The cause of psoriatic arthritis is unknown but genetics, the immune system and environmental factors may play parts in causing this type of arthritis.

What are the symptoms?

The most common symptoms are:

• pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints, buttocks, lower back or neck
• pain at the back of the heel or sole of the foot
• changes in the nails, such as thickening, colour change or separation from the skin
• pain and redness in the eyes.



Please contact your doctor if your symptoms change.

How is it diagnosed?

• A rheumatologist or dermatologist will diagnose and treat psoriatic arthritis.
• It can be difficult and take time to diagnose psoriatic arthritis and there are no specific tests. Your doctor will make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and some tests, which can include blood tests and x-rays.

How is it treated?

• While there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, there are a variety of medicines available to help with the symptoms. A rheumatologist will advise you on what treatment is best for you. You may have to trial a few.
• Eating a healthy diet, staying physically active, not smoking and avoiding too much stress can help your general health and wellbeing.

Please contact your doctor for further information about your condition and treatment.