Advantages in early recognition and treatment of psoriatic arthritis

Abstract

Previously, the early diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis was not a priority, especially since there was an absence of drugs able to modify the course of the disease. The scenario has completely changed in the last few years as a result of the introduction of the anti-TNF-α-blocking agents, which control symptoms and signs of inflammation, and inhibit the progression of the structural joint damage. Recently, the CASPAR criteria have been proposed, which have demonstrated a sufficient performance in the early forms of the disease. In everyday clinical practice, these criteria can assist in recognizing early psoriatic arthritis, although the diagnosis should also be made if these are not met. To date, no evidence-based treatment strategies are available for early psoriatic arthritis. GRAPPA has recently proposed recommendations for the treatment of the various clinical manifestations of psoriatic disease. As part of these recommendations a grid was suggested for the degree of disease (mild, moderate and severe...