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Arthralgia in Patients with Chronic Plaque Psoriasis: Practical Insights for Dermatologists
Paolo Gisondi1, Francesco Bellinato1, Enzo Errichetti2
1Department of Medicine, Section of Dermatology and Venereology, University of Verona, Verona, Italy.
Introduction:
Arthralgia is a frequent but often overlooked symptom in patients with psoriasis (PsO) and may represent an early manifestation of psoriatic arthritis (PsA).
Objective:
To provide a practical overview aiming to support dermatologists in the identification and management of arthralgia in PsO.
Methods:
An expert panel comprising three dermatologists and two rheumatologists convened to discuss data from a literature search of PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE conducted using the terms "arthralgia" and "psoriasis." Relevant studies were qualitatively analyzed based on clinical relevance and available data on epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis, and management.
Results:
Predictors of PsA development and distinctions between inflammatory and noninflammatory joint pain are presented, and the main differential diagnoses such as osteoarthritis and fibromyalgia are discussed. The importance of validated screening tools, early imaging, and timely rheumatology referral is emphasized, along with recommendations for patient education and risk factor management.
Conclusions:
Dermatologists play a central role in the early detection of arthralgia in patients with PsO. Timely rheumatology referral is essential to facilitating early intervention, preventing irreversible joint damage, and improving long-term outcomes.