Psoriasisniveltulehdus

Psoriasisniveltulehdus, also known as psoriatic arthritis, is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects some people who have psoriasis. Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, itchy, scaly patches, most commonly on the knees, elbows, trunk, and scalp. In psoriatic arthritis, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body's own tissues, leading to inflammation in the joints and sometimes other areas like the eyes and tendons.

The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can vary widely among individuals. Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling are common, and these symptoms can affect any joint in the body. Some people experience mild symptoms, while others have severe joint damage that can lead to disability. The inflammation may affect a few joints or many, and it can occur symmetrically (on both sides of the body) or asymmetrically (affecting joints unevenly). In addition to joint symptoms, skin psoriasis may also worsen or improve independently of joint inflammation. Other potential symptoms include fatigue, inflammation of the eyes (uveitis), and inflammation of the tendons or ligaments (enthesitis).

The exact cause of psoriatic arthritis is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve a combination of genetic and environmental factors. A family history of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis increases the risk. While there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, various treatments are available to manage symptoms, reduce inflammation, and prevent joint damage. These treatments can include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic agents, and physical therapy. Early diagnosis and treatment are important to achieve the best outcomes.