What is psoriatic arthritis?
Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune disease that combines the swollen, sore joints of arthritis with the skin disease psoriasis. The immune system is the body's defense against infection and disease. When the immune system detects cells that don't belong in the body (bacteria, viruses or foreign cells), it releases cells to attack them. The immune system also helps the body to recover and heal after any illness.
In people with psoriatic arthritis, the immune system does not work properly. It attacks healthy cells as well as foreign cells. These attacks can target joint and skin causing swollen, tender joints, swelling and pain.
There is still no cure for psoriatic arthritis, but new and more targeted treatment options have become available. Early and aggressive treatment has allowed many patients to slow progression of the disease and help with symptoms. The right medicine therapy can help you reduce pain and damage, remain active and live a full life.
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