In a study, researchers discovered significant insights into the progression of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) from a subclinical state in individuals with psoriasis, particularly those experiencing unexplained joint pain and non-inflammatory symptoms. The study draws on data from two European prospective cohorts, RAPSODI and PACE. These cohorts tracked patients with diagnosed psoriasis who exhibited potential risk factors for PsA but had no clinical signs at the start of the study.
The research highlighted that over 80% of participants with psoriasis developed subclinical PsA, with a notable transition to clinical PsA occurring at a rate of 7.7 per 100 patient-years over an average follow-up of 33 months. A large portion of these individuals exhibited inflammatory symptoms shortly before receiving a PsA diagnosis, although non-inflammatory symptoms were more prevalent prior to the onset of PsA. The study’s findings emphasize that individuals with psoriasis who experience unexplained arthralgia, particularly when accompanied by non-inflammatory symptoms, face a significantly increased risk of developing PsA, with peripheral arthritis being the most common initial presentation.
Reference: Smith T. Psoriasis Patients with Arthralgia At Increased Risk of Psoriatic Arthritis Development. HCPLive. Published April 17, 2024. Accessed May 14, 2024. https://www.hcplive.com/view/psoriasis-patients-with-arthralgia-increased-risk-psoriatic-arthritis-development
