A recent study published in Arthritis Care and Research, investigators found a similar prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia in patients with psoriatic arthritis compared to the general population. Patients with psoriatic arthritis who are more likely to undergo osteoporosis screening are those with traditional risk factors including age and menopause, as well as those with features suggestive of higher disease activity, including elevated acute phase reactants and use of glucocorticoid, methotrexate, and biologics.

While psoriatic arthritis is not found to be associated with osteoporosis, it is historically associated with the increased risk of fracture in most studies. There are no specific guidelines for osteoporosis screening or treatment in patients with psoriatic arthritis, but general guidelines should apply. The National Osteoporosis Foundation offers a detailed guide on osteoporosis prevention and management and the FRAX tool provides a practical estimate of fracture risk that can determine treatment.

Many of our residents have arthritis pain; could it be psoriatic arthritis? The symptoms are similar: increased joint pain, immobility, etc. It might be time to check out the tools on the links above; talk to your medical providers and do the right thing!

Stay the course, stay well, mask up, get vaccinated, and stay tuned!