Psoriasis is generally considered a skin condition with the itchy, flaky, and scaly patches of skin dominating all conversations around the disease. The fact that psoriasis also affects the nails and may simultaneously be the cause of arthritis is rarely mentioned, or known outside the medical fraternity. 

What is Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a chronic condition where an overactive immune response causes multiplication of skin cells. These skin cells show up as patchy or scaly skin, most often on, but not restricted to the scalp, elbows, or knees. Some patients experience stiff, swollen, and painful joints,  a condition referred to as Psoriatic Arthritis.

Causes

Psoriasis is an immune-mediated disease, which means that one’s immune system begins to overreact and leads to inflammation of the skin, sometimes accompanied by pitted and discolored nails (Nail Psoriasis) and inflammation of the joints (Psoriatic Arthritis).

Symptoms of Psoriatic Arthritis and Nail Psoriasis

Individuals with Psoriatic Arthritis experience joint stiffness, pain, and swelling of joints. The joints of the skin may be affected, as well. The pain is accompanied by continued fatigue. 

Those with Nail Psoriasis experience the development of tiny dents in the nails referred to as nail pits, and plaque discoloration under the nails accompanied by discoloration of the nails.

Treatment 

Currently, there is no cure for Psoriatic Arthritis. Any treatment would involve the relieving of symptoms, slowing down the progression of the condition, and improving the quality of one’s life. Generally, the choice of drugs for treating symptoms associated with the condition is disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). 

Patients with Nail Psoriasis may need to be injected with Corticosteroids directly into or near the nail. Application of topical corticosteroids provides relief for dermatitis during psoriasis.

Doctors recommend paying attention to any plaque build-up under their nails. If the plaque is accompanied by discoloration of the nail, then one must seek a dermatologist’s appointment. Similarly, if one experiences discomfort in one’s joints along with itchy and flaky skin, one must immediately seek an appointment with a dermatologist to ascertain an underlying or active psoriatic arthritic condition. 

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