Hi @A MyPsoriasisTeam Member, welcome! It is possible that you have PsA. Do you have a rheumatologist? There are several tests they will look at to deduce whether you have PsA or not. Unfortunately there's no single test for PsA but the doctor will look at those tests and consider your health history and symptoms.
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A MyPsori...
April 7
Are you concerned about developing psoriatic arthritis given your long history of psoriasis and need for thumb joint replacement surgery?
Your concerns are understandable. Having psoriasis for many years (since age 14 in your case) is actually considered a risk factor for developing psoriatic arthritis. PsA typically Show Full Answer
Are you concerned about developing psoriatic arthritis given your long history of psoriasis and need for thumb joint replacement surgery?
Your concerns are understandable. Having psoriasis for many years (since age 14 in your case) is actually considered a risk factor for developing psoriatic arthritis. PsA typically appears between ages 30-50, usually 5-10 years after psoriasis first shows up, though it can develop at any time.
Some key signs to watch for include:
- Joint pain, stiffness, and swelling
- Swelling in fingers or toes (sometimes called "sausage digits")
- Pain where tendons attach to bone, especially the Achilles tendon
- Nail changes like pitting, white spots, or lifting
If you're noticing these symptoms along with your thumb joint issues, it's important to talk with your dermatologist right away. You may benefit from seeing a rheumatologist who specializes in joint conditions. Early treatment of PsA leads to better outcomes and can help prevent further joint damage.
A MyPsoriasisTeam member shared: "I had psoriasis for years but didn't know what psoriatic arthritis was until I was diagnosed with it after arthritic changes in my knee and a sausage finger."
Joint replacement surgery can be very helpful for severe joint damage. Members who've had hip replacements have found it makes managing other joint pain easier.
April 7
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