Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis
Psoriasis is a very common skin condition. The cause is unknown. However, like rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune diseases, there is an imbalance of cytokines which are molecules produced in the skin, as well as in the joints. Patients will often develop whitish, itchy patches and plaques.
These are often found in the scalp, behind the ears and on extremities such as the elbows and knees. Many suffer the embarrassment of the ‘Heartbreak of Psoriasis’.
When the rash affects so many extremities. Many patients with psoriasis will develop a painful inflammatory arthritis. This can cause significant swelling and stiffness of joints.
An important health issue observed in many people with Psoriasis is that they often have other serious health issues such as High Blood pressure , Diabetes and are overweight.
These medical illnesses along with Psoriasis contribute to more heart disease.
Psoriasis patients also have higher incidence of excess alcohol us and depression.
These medical conditions if present need to be carefully addressed with the involvement of the patients family physician, dermatologist and other professionals.
There is Good News ! With the active participation of the patients and his/her medical team psoriatic arthritis can be diagnosed and effectively treated.
For those patients with more moderate and severe psoriasis and arthritis we use some of the same treatments that are used in rheumatoid arthritis. See the below pictures of psoriasis and medical therapies. Remittive and Biologic medications include: Cimzia, Cosentyx, Enbrel, Humira, Otezla and Simponi ,Simponi Aria, Talz and Xeljanz.and Biosimilars.