The perspective on psoriatic arthritis in Asia

There is a wide variation in the prevalence, incidence, and clinical manifestation of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) across countries due to genetic and environmental factors. Data on PsA in Asia are limited and come from small cross-sectional studies. The burden of PsA in Asia is high, including poor physical functioning, poor quality of life, and high socioeconomic cost. In addition, high rates of subclinical atherosclerosis and traditional cardiovascular risk factors among PsA patients in Asia have been demonstrated. Preliminary data suggest treatment with tumor necrosis factor blockers may reverse atherosclerosis in PsA. Several outcome measure instruments, including the Medical Outcomes Survey Short Form 36 and Health Assessment Questionnaire, have been validated for measuring PsA burden among the Chinese. A coordinated effort in Asia from the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA) and the Asia Pacific League of Associations for Rheumatology (APLAR) will help estimate disease burden and clinical behavior of PsA on that continent.