Inflammatory Musculoskeletal Disease: Identification and Assessment

Abstract

Diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is complex because not all patients with psoriasis and musculoskeletal symptoms of pain, stiffness, and dysfunction have PsA. Instead, they may have other inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or septic arthritis, or noninflammatory conditions such as osteoarthritis, recurrent tendonitis, mechanical back pain, or a myriad other musculoskeletal conditions. To acquire skill in diagnosing and monitoring the disease course of PsA, a clinician must recognize that there are multiple clinical domains that may be affected, including peripheral joints, entheseal insertion sites, dactylitis, and the spine. They must also appreciate the clinical features (history and physical examination) that are characteristic of immunologic inflammation and know how to utilize and interpret laboratory and imaging studies. Rheumatologists are expected to be skilled in these assessments. It is also helpful for dermatologists, primary care physicians, and other clinicians who work with psoriasis patients to have a working knowledge of assessments in PsA in order to identify and triage the patient for optimal management. Features that assist identification and assessment of PsA are reviewed in this article.