The basics
Psoriatic arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disease of the joints and connective tissue, was first described in 1818 by a French physician, Baron Jean Louis Alibert, but it was not until the 1950s that it was classified as distinct from other arthritic diseases.
Psoriatic arthritis is associated with psoriasis on the skin. Approximately 10 percent to 30 percent of people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis, although it often may go undiagnosed, particularly in its milder forms. It can develop at any time, but for most people it appears between the ages of 30 and 50. Psoriatic arthritis seems to affect men at a slightly higher percentage than women.
Both genetic and environmental factors seem to be associated with the development of psoriatic arthritis. The immune system plays an important role.
Prompt diagnosis and treatment can relieve pain and inflammation and possibly help prevent progressive joint involvement and damage. Without treatment, psoriatic arthritis can potentially be disabling and crippling.
Other resources
More information on psoriatic arthritis of the spinal column (spondylitis) is available from the Spondylitis Association of America. Call 800.777.8189 or visit www.spondylitis.org.
The Arthritis Foundation offers exercise programs and self-help manuals. Call 800.568.4045 or visit www.arthritis.org. Information on local programs can be obtained by contacting a local Arthritis Foundation chapter.
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Updated October 2005
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