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What would be the best way...

A MyPsoriasisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Wetumpka, AL

what is the best way to find out if you have psoriatic arthritis ... I was told I have regular arthritis.. I have had psoriasis for many years I was 15 ... now 51...

April 30
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A MyPsoriasisTeam Member

Hi @A MyPsoriasisTeam Member, the best way is to work with a rheumatologist who will examine your joints, ask you to describe your symptoms, order blood tests and maybe some imaging-xray or MRI, for example.
They are looking for inflammation and its involvement in your joint pain.
They will also rule out things like RA.
My rheumatologist looked at my sedimentation rate, c-reactive protein, and at the various blood cell types. Putting all of those things together they will make a diagnosis.
There are certain patterns in pain, such as back pain that is worse when you wake up and dissipates after an hour or two after you wake up. Having joints that are swollen, red, and warm to the touch.
I was diagnosed when I was 47 after suffering with various symptoms for decades!

April 30 (edited)
MyPsoriasisTeam

Getting a diagnosis for psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can feel like a puzzle — there's no single test that confirms it. Doctors use a combination of tools to figure out what's going on with your joints.

Here's what the diagnostic process typically looks like:

- Medical history review — Your doctor will ask about your Show Full Answer

Getting a diagnosis for psoriatic arthritis (PsA) can feel like a puzzle — there's no single test that confirms it. Doctors use a combination of tools to figure out what's going on with your joints.

Here's what the diagnostic process typically looks like:

- Medical history review — Your doctor will ask about your psoriasis history, joint symptoms, and whether PsA or psoriasis runs in your family
- Physical exam — Joints, fingers, toes, and even fingernails (looking for pitting or ridging) will be examined
- Blood tests — These check for inflammation markers like CRP and ESR; a rheumatoid factor (RF) test may also be done to help rule out other types of arthritis
- Imaging tests — X-rays, MRI, or ultrasound can reveal joint damage or inflammation; MRI and ultrasound are especially useful for catching early-stage PsA
- Biopsies — In some cases, a skin or joint fluid sample may be taken to confirm psoriasis or rule out other causes of joint pain A dermatologist or rheumatologist is best placed to guide this process. Rheumatologists specialize in joint conditions and are often the ones to confirm a PsA diagnosis.

Early diagnosis really matters — catching PsA sooner can help prevent long-term joint damage, so if you're experiencing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness alongside your psoriasis symptoms, it's worth bringing it up with your doctor sooner rather than later.

April 30

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