Perhaps you’ve heard of psoriatic arthritis before but are unsure about what it refers to. Is it psoriasis? Is it arthritis? Is it more of one than the other?
Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that board-certified pediatric rheumatologist Dr. Ruy Carassco and our staff treat frequently in children and teenagers here at Pediatric Rheumatology Consultants.
An autoimmune disorder is when your own body mistakenly attacks something within its own system. Common symptoms include both the inflammation and swelling of joints associated with arthritis as well as the red, scaly, itchy skin flare-ups caused by the skin condition psoriasis.
Roughly six percent of children living with juvenile arthritis are also affected by psoriatic arthritis. Here are some of other lesser-known facts about the condition.
6 Little Known Facts about Psoriatic Arthritis
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About 2.25 million Americans are living with psoriatic arthritis, and although it occurs more frequently in adults, it’s estimated that about one to ten out of every 33,000 kids are diagnosed with it as well.
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Juvenile psoriatic arthritis is most common among kids between the ages of 6 and 10.
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You do not necessarily have to have psoriasis to have psoriatic arthritis, but up to 30% of people with it go on to develop this condition.
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Joints closest to your fingernails and toenails are those most commonly affected, although the pain and skin irritation can strike any joint in the body.
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There is no one definitive test to determine psoriatic arthritis, however a rheumatologist will look at a combination of factors such as family medical history, a variety of blood tests, and X-ray and MRI imaging to make an accurate diagnosis.
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Pediatric, or juvenile, psoriatic arthritis is usually considered a form of juvenile idiopathic arthritis, meaning that the cause or origin of the disorder is often unknown.
How do you treat psoriatic arthritis?
Many children typically grow out of the most severe symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, and it is highly treatable via some of the following effective therapies:
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medications to ease inflammation and alleviate joint pain
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prescription creams and ointments to soothe irritated skin
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basic hot and cold therapies as needed
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regular exercise and physical therapy to improve joint function and flexibility
Contact your pediatrician or a specialist if your child is suffering from unusual symptoms around their joints. Early diagnosis and treatment often lead to less pain and can prevent severe joint damage.
Pediatric Rheumatology Consultants treats a wide range of autoimmune disorders and diseases of the musculoskeletal system in children and teenagers. Our team includes the expertise of Dr. Carrasco along with the compassionate care of our experienced nurses. Please visit us here to schedule an appointment.
