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Types of psoriatic arthritis

There are five different types of psoriatic arthritis, determined by which parts of the body are affected as well as the extent and severity of inflammation.

Symmetric
arthritis

Symmetric arthritis usually affects the same joints on both sides of the body. Usually, multiple pairs of joints, such as the right and left knees or right and left elbows, are affected. This type of psoriatic arthritis resembles rheumatoid arthritis, but it's generally milder, although it can also be disabling.

Asymmetric arthritis

Asymmetric arthritis can occur in any joint, such as the elbow, knee, wrist, or a finger. It can affect one or many joints, but usually not the same joints on both sides of the body. Joints may be warm, tender, and red. Sometimes, fingers and toes can become enlarged and “sausage-like.”

Distal interphalangeal predominant (DIP)

DIP affects the joints in the fingers and toes closest to the nail; nail changes are common. It is sometimes mistaken for osteoarthritis.

Spondylitis

Spondylitis is inflammation of the spinal column. Many people with psoriatic arthritis will have stiffness in the neck, lower back, pelvic area, or spinal vertebrae, making motion painful and difficult. Hands, arms, hips, legs, and feet can also be affected.

Arthritis mutilans

Arthritis mutilans is a severe, deforming, and destructive form of psoriatic arthritis. It usually affects the small joints of the hands and feet, but can also cause pain in the neck and lower back.

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Learn About Psoriatic Arthritis

It's a chronic inflammatory disease that attacks both the skin and joints. Up to 30% of people with psoriasis may develop PsA.