Psoriatic arthritis

Abstract

Psoriatic arthritis (PSA) is an entity of inflammatory joint disease associated with psoriasis. PSA belongs to the heterogeneous group of seronegative spondylarthropathies. Both peripheral joints and axial skeleton can be affected in a characteristic pattern. In addition to that, enthesitis and dactylitis are important extracutaneous manifestations. Uveitis anterior is temporarily seen in about one quarter of PSA patients. There is a closer relationship of nail and joint disease. This review provides data on drug and physical treatment options. In particular DMARDS and inhibitors of tumor necrosis factor alpha are established therapies with importance for quality of life and long term outcome. New drugs are tested in various trials.