Psoriatic arthritis and the dermatologist: An approach to screening and clinical evaluation

Publication date: July–August 2018

Source: Clinics in Dermatology, Volume 36, Issue 4

Author(s): Arianna Zhang, Drew J.B. Kurtzman, Lourdes M. Perez-Chada, Joseph F. Merola

Abstract

Psoriatic arthritis is a common form of inflammatory arthritis that frequently accompanies psoriasis of the skin—up to 30% of patients with psoriasis are affected. Recognition of the clinical features of psoriatic arthritis is critical, as delayed detection and untreated disease may result in irreparable joint injury, impaired physical function, and a significantly reduced quality of life. Recent epidemiologic studies have also supported that psoriatic arthritis is associated with cardiometabolic and cerebrovascular comorbidities, including coronary heart disease, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and cerebrovascular accidents, further highlighting the importance of identifying affected patients. Dermatologists are poised for the early detection of psoriatic arthritis, as psoriasis predates its development in as many as 80% of patients. In an effort to further acquaint dermatologists and other clinicians with psoriatic arthritis, this review provides a detailed overview, emphasizing its salient clinical features, and discusses classification criteria, validated screening tools, and simple musculoskeletal examination maneuvers that may facilitate earlier detection and treatment of the disorder.