Medical Health Encyclopedia

Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test Special Topic

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Psoriasis, guttate on the arms and chest Psoriasis, guttate on the cheek

Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention

Psoriatic arthritis

Alternative Names: Arthritis - psoriatic Treatment: Treatment of psoriatic arthritis involves medication, patient education, and physical and occupational therapy. Text Continues Below Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS) or salicylates are used to reduce pain and inflammation of the joints. More severe arthritis requires treatment with more powerful drugs called disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDS). Occasionally, particularly painful joints may be injected with steroid medications. Recently, new medications have been introduced. Inhibitors of the inflammatory protein called tumor necrosis factor (TNF) are fast becoming the treatment of choice. These include etanercept (Enbrel), infliximab (Remicade), and adalimumuab (Humira). Rarely, surgery to repair or replace damaged joints will be performed. Get rest and exercise. To increase mobility, physical therapy provides exercise programs for specific joints. Heat and cold applications, or hydrotherapy may also be used. Expectations (prognosis): The course of the disease is often mild and affects only a few joints. In those with severe arthritis, treatment is usually very successful in alleviating the pain. Complications: Repeated episodes may occur. Calling your health care provider: Call for an appointment with your health care provider if arthritis symptoms develop along with psoriasis.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.