Psoriasis is a skin disease that causes itchy or sore patches of thick, red skin with silvery scales. You usually get them on your elbows, knees, scalp, back, face, palms and feet, but they can show up on other parts of your body.
Some people with psoriasis have psoriatic arthritis. It causes pain, stiffness and swelling of the joints. It is often mild, but can sometimes be serious and affect many joints. The joint and skin problems don't always happen at the same time.
Your doctor will do a physical exam and imaging tests to diagnose psoriatic arthritis. There is no cure, but medicines can help control inflammation and pain. In rare cases, you might need surgery to repair or replace damaged joints.
Psoriatic Arthritis Clinic
Psoriatic arthritis occurs in up to one-third of people who have psoriasis, and can result in disabling joint pain and disfiguring inflammation if left untreated. This new clinic enables early intervention for patients psoriatic arthritis.
The Multidisciplinary Psoriatic Arthritis Clinic at OSU Wexner Medical Center is designed to allow patients to see a variety of specialists in one place – often all in one visit. The program improves coordination of care for patients as well as communication between specialists.
People suspected of having psoriatic arthritis receive same-day access to a rheumatologist who can provide a thorough evaluation. And for patients who already are diagnosed with both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis and require care from both specialists, this means fewer trips back and forth to the Ohio State campus.
This unique clinic brings together physicians who specialize in Rheumatology, Immunology and Dermatology medicine.