Subcutaneous psoriasis: The disease’s journey to the joints
Psoriasis is a chronic skin disease that causes the appearance of red, scaly patches on the skin. However, this disease is not limited to the skin, but can affect the joints as well, leading to what is known as articular psoriasis. In this article, we will discuss in detail articular psoriasis, its symptoms, causes, and treatment methods.
What is articular psoriasis?
Arthropodal psoriasis is a type of arthritis that occurs in people with psoriasis. This condition affects small and large joints in the body, causing inflammation, pain and swelling. Although the exact relationship between cutaneous psoriasis and articular psoriasis is not fully understood, there is evidence to suggest a strong link between them.
Symptoms of articular psoriasis
Symptoms of articular psoriasis vary from person to person and may range from mild to severe. Common symptoms include:
- Joint pain: Joint pain is usually the first and most common symptom of articular psoriasis.
- Swelling: The affected joints swell, limiting movement.
- Stiffness: People feel stiffness in the joints, especially in the morning.
- Heat and redness: Affected joints may become red and warm.
- Fatigue and exhaustion: Many sufferers feel very tired and exhausted.
Causes of articular psoriasis
The exact causes of articular psoriasis are not fully known, but it is thought that genetic and immune factors play an important role. Researchers believe that the same immune response that causes skin spots in psoriasis can also affect joints.
Risk factors
Certain factors increase your risk of arthropodal psoriasis, including:
- Having a family history of psoriasis or arthritis: People with relatives with psoriasis or arthritis are more likely to develop arthropia.
- Severity of skin psoriasis: People with severe skin psoriasis are more likely to develop articular psoriasis.
- Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of articular psoriasis and worsens symptoms.
- Obesity: Obesity may contribute to an increased risk of arthropodal psoriasis.
Diagnosis of articular psoriasis
Arthropodal psoriasis is diagnosed based on the patient’s medical history, physical examination, and the results of certain tests, such as:
- Blood test: to assess the presence of inflammation in the body.
- X-rays: to assess joint damage.
- Magnetic resonance: to evaluate the soft tissues around the joints.
Treatment of articular psoriasis
There is no cure for arthroplastia, but there are many treatments available that can help relieve symptoms and improve quality of life. Treatment options include:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications help relieve pain and swelling.
- Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs): These drugs suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation.
- Biological therapy: Biological therapy targets specific parts of the immune system that cause inflammation.
- Physical therapy: Physical therapy helps improve mobility and reduce pain.
The bottom line
Articular psoriasis is a complex condition that requires careful diagnosis and treatment. Although there is no cure, there are several treatment options available that can help control symptoms and improve the quality of life for those affected. It is important that patients collaborate with their doctors to develop an appropriate treatment plan.
