The simplest explanation of Psoriatic Arthritis would be a combination of Psoriasis and Arthritis. Psoriasis is a common, autoimmune skin disorder. Here the immune system stimulates and boosts the production of new skin cells, which are visible as pink or red patches. Arthritis is a joint disorder that is associated with inflammation and pain in single or multiple joints. Hence patients affected by Psoriatic Arthritis, experience the symptoms of both these diseases.

The cause of psoriatic arthritis has not been confirmed, though many believe it may be backed by heredity or an injury to the cartilage. Psoriatic arthritis makes an entry in two ways. A person with Psoriasis can develop Arthritis or vice versa, the former being the majority. The symptoms may develop rapidly or slowly, depending on a person's immune system. Usually victims are between 30 and 50 years of age but it can affect youngsters between 14 and 24 as well. Two percent of Caucasian Americans are also prone to be affected by Psoriatic Arthritis.

These symptoms are quite similar to those of Rheumatoid Arthritis. For instance, morning stiffness, tiredness, fatigue, tender and painful tendons and joints, swollen fingers, toes and tendons, limited motion of a joint or joints. Other symptoms include pitted nails or nails that come off nail beds, skin lesions and conjunctivitis. Psoriatic Arthritis often affects the joints near fingers and toes and in severe cases the spine. In most occasions the severe form is of Arthritis and not Psoriasis.

There are five types of Psoriatic Arthritis. Symmetric arthritis, Asymmetric arthritis, Distal Inter-phalangeal Predominant (DIP), Spondylitis, Arthritis mutilans. Symmetric and Asymmetric Arthritis are mild versions of this disease. The difference is the former affects corresponding joints the later doesn't follow the same rule. DIP attacks toes and fingers and Spondylitis mainly affects the spine. Arthritis mutilans is the severe form of this disease and causes deformities in joints near the hand and feet.

DMARDs such as Leflunomide, Sulfasalazine and Methotrexate, pain killers and anti-inflammatory pills are given as medicines. In some occasions, patients are also given steroids in the form of an injection if the pain is unbearable. Surgery is rare but performed under extreme circumstances. Physical therapy and balanced diets are given as supplementary treatment methods. IR therapy can also be used to provide better motion and relieve the pain and inflammation. Most doctors do not agree that such things as glucosamine 1500 supplements are effective for the disease.

This disease has a world famous record of paying repeated visits. To this reason it is up to Psoriatic Arthritis patients to stick to their treatment methods even if the disease subsides.