Fast Five Quiz: How Much Do You Know About Psoriatic Arthritis?

Eric M. Ruderman, MD

Disclosures

December 23, 2021

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a progressive seronegative oligoarticular arthritis that can cause permanent damage to the joints. The prevalence of PsA varies from country to country, but its incidence and prevalence are higher in North America and Europe than in Asia. Although there is variability in global estimates, a recent meta-analysis concluded that the pooled prevalence and incidence rates of PsA are 133 every 100,000 subjects and 83 every 100,000 PY. Although most patients have a previous diagnosis of psoriasis before the onset of PsA, approximately 10% present with fatigue, stiffness and joint pain before developing skin findings, and some patients may display only subtle skin changes.

Astute clinicians who are familiar with the subtle signs and symptoms, preclinical stages, and presenting patterns associated with PsA can effectively determine a patient's likelihood of having PsA and eliminate other potential diagnoses.

Early diagnosis and treatment of PsA are essential to preserve patients' joint function, comfort, and independence. This is especially important in cases of the more destructive forms of PsA that typically develop in patients older than 60 years of age (elderly-onset PsA).

Can you recognize the important patterns associated with PsA joint involvement and skin changes, and the differential diagnoses of PsA? Check your knowledge with this short quiz.

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