Psoriasis Risks and Related Conditions

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that produces joint and skin symptoms. Sometimes skin symptoms and joint symptoms do not occur together. Arthritis symptoms include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. In psoriatic arthritis, the pain is often felt in the hands and feet, although symptoms can occur in other areas of the body, such as the elbows, knees, and back. Psoriatic arthritis symptoms may start out mildly and then gradually become more intense. If you have skin symptoms and develop pain and stiffness in your joints, talk to your doctor.

About 10% to 30% of people with psoriasis may develop psoriatic arthritis. If psoriatic arthritis is untreated, it can result in permanent damage to the joints.

Risks to the skin

Psoriasis causes the skin to itch and flake. Hard scratching and skin abrasions caused by psoriasis may allow bacteria to enter, leading to skin infections. Abrasions, cuts, and scratches can also trigger the formation of additional plaques and lesions.

Psoriasis is a chronic, or lifelong, illness. It cannot be cured. However, with proper treatment, psoriasis symptoms can be managed so that you can go about your daily routine and maintain quality of life.

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