The primary difference between arthritis and psoriatic arthritis is the cause of the condition. Arthritis is a general term used to describe joint inflammation, and it can be caused by a range of factors, including wear and tear, infection, or an autoimmune disorder. Psoriatic arthritis, on the other hand, is an autoimmune disorder caused by the body's immune system mistakenly attacking healthy tissue.
When it comes to symptoms, the two types of arthritis share many of the same signs, including stiffness, pain, and swelling in the joints. However, psoriatic arthritis is more likely to cause joint pain and stiffness in the morning, as well as fatigue and general malaise. Additionally, psoriatic arthritis often affects the same joints on both sides of the body, while arthritis may affect different joints on each side.
In terms of diagnosis, arthritis is usually diagnosed based on a physical examination and medical history, while psoriatic arthritis requires additional tests to confirm the diagnosis. This may include blood tests, X-rays, and other imaging tests. Additionally, psoriatic arthritis is often diagnosed in conjunction with psoriasis, a skin condition characterized by red, scaly patches.
Finally, the treatment of the two conditions also differs. Treatment for arthritis is often focused on relieving symptoms, such as pain and inflammation. This may include medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes. Psoriatic arthritis, on the other hand, is often treated with medications that target the underlying cause of the condition, such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologics.