Vol. 3, Issue 1 (2017)

Background: Psoriasis is characterized by red, scaly plaques that commonly appear on the scalp, elbows, knees, and other areas due to abnormal skin cell turnover. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory condition, seen in approximately 20-30% of patients with psoriasis that affects the joints, often accompanying psoriasis, and causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in affected joints. This study aimed to assess the clinical profile, immunological markers, and outcomes of PsA in a cohort of patients.

Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted over One years at Department of Orthopedics, Madha Medical College, Chennai involving 100 patients with PsA. Patients were diagnosed based on CASPAR and ILAR criteria for adults and juvenile PsA, respectively. Detailed clinical examinations, radiographic evaluations, and immunological assessments, including RF and HLA-B27 analysis, were performed. Disease activity was measured using the Psoriasis Activity and Severity Index (PASI) and other musculoskeletal assessments.

Results: The study found that 61% of patients were male, with a mean age of 37.48 years. Skin involvement was the initial manifestation in 58% of cases. Symmetric polyarthritis (59%) was the most common form of arthritis. Radiographic abnormalities, including sacroiliitis (21%), were observed. Immunological markers such as RF positivity (7%) and HLA-B27 positivity (18%) were present.

Conclusion: This study highlights the diverse clinical and immunological presentations of PsA, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and tailored treatment strategies to prevent joint damage and improve long-term outcomes.