INTRODUCTION
Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a chronic, immune-mediated inflammatory disease that affects up to 30% of patients with psoriasis (PsO), corresponding to nearly 3 million individuals in the United States.1,2 The annual incidence is estimated at 6 per 100,000 people, with a prevalence of 1 to 2 per 1,000, affecting men and women equally.3 PsO is associated with a significant comorbidity burden, including increased risk of PsA, cardiovascular disease, inflammatory bowel disease, and psychological disorders, among others.4 Patients frequently report impaired quality of life due to pain, fatigue, depression, social impairment, and disability, and up to 20% progress to irreversible joint damage and severe functional limitations without timely treatment.5
Dermatologists managing PsO are in a unique position to facilitate early PsA detection; however, screening strategies and implementation remain inconsistent. Studies show that up to 40% of dermatology providers do not routinely screen PsO patients for PsA, leading to delayed diagnosis and missed opportunities for early intervention.6,7 Barriers include limited time during patient visits, lack of training in screening tools, and uncertainty regarding next steps or treatment modifications once PsA is suspected.8,9 Validated, low-cost instruments such as the Psoriasis Epidemiological Screening Tool (PEST) offer an efficient means of identifying patients at risk,10 yet are underutilized.
Dermatologists managing PsO are in a unique position to facilitate early PsA detection; however, screening strategies and implementation remain inconsistent. Studies show that up to 40% of dermatology providers do not routinely screen PsO patients for PsA, leading to delayed diagnosis and missed opportunities for early intervention.6,7 Barriers include limited time during patient visits, lack of training in screening tools, and uncertainty regarding next steps or treatment modifications once PsA is suspected.8,9 Validated, low-cost instruments such as the Psoriasis Epidemiological Screening Tool (PEST) offer an efficient means of identifying patients at risk,10 yet are underutilized.
