Psoriatic arthritis – what the dermatologist needs to know

Psoriasis is commonly associated with a co-existent arthritis known as psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Although there is some treatment overlap for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, it is possible that dermatologists may not diagnose or treat appropriately patients who are developing psoriatic arthritis at an early stage of the disease process when joint damage may be preventable. In this article we review the criteria for diagnosis of this sero-negative arthritis, look at the clinical indications for referral to a rheumatologist and discuss evolving treatment options relevant to both conditions.