Psoriatic Arthritis

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This page has been written for people affected by psoriatic arthritis. It provides general information to help you understand how you may be affected. It also covers what you can do to manage psoriatic arthritis and where to go for further information.

What is psoriatic arthritis?


What are the symptoms?


  • pain, swelling and stiffness in one or more joints
  • pain and redness in the eyes.

What causes it?


How is it diagnosed?

Your doctor will diagnose psoriatic arthritis from your symptoms and a physical examination. Your skin will be examined for signs of psoriasis, if you have not been diagnosed with this already. There is no specific test for psoriatic arthritis. However your doctor may order blood tests for inflammation, such as the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) test. Blood tests may also help to rule out other types of arthritis. If your doctor suspects you have psoriatic arthritis you should be referred to a rheumatologist, a doctor who specialises in arthritis.

What will happen to me?

With the right treatment, most people with psoriatic arthritis can lead full and active lives. However the course of psoriatic arthritis is variable and no two cases are the same. Many people find their symptoms worsen at times (known as a 'flare') and then settle down for a period of time. About one in 20 people with psoriatic arthritis will develop a more severe, destructive form which can cause deformity to the joints in the hands and/or feet. Most people with psoriatic arthritis will need some ongoing treatment to control their symptoms and prevent damage to the joints. This is usually managed by a rheumatologist.

Psoriatic Arthritis continued…
