[Medical Q&A] Will I definitely get psoriatic arthritis if I have psoriasis?

Planner: Chinese Medical Association

Reviewer: Ji Chao, Chief Physician, First Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University

According to statistics, about 30% of psoriasis patients will develop psoriatic arthritis. That is to say, 3 out of every 10 psoriasis patients will experience joint symptoms, including joint pain, redness, swelling, morning stiffness, and even disability in more severe cases. Arthritis can occur before, during, or after the onset of psoriasis lesions. About 75% of patients have joint symptoms after psoriasis lesions.

The following people are at greater risk of developing psoriatic arthritis.

(1) Psoriasis on the scalp and nails.

(2) A direct relative suffers from psoriatic arthritis.

(3) Patients with severe psoriasis symptoms.

(4) Obese patients with psoriasis.

But don't worry too much. As long as you control your psoriasis, you have a greater chance of preventing psoriatic arthritis. Once joint-related symptoms are found, early treatment should help avoid the risk of permanent damage and disability.