Treatment: Corticosteroid Injections
Corticosteroid injections are a viable treatment option for psoriatic arthritis, specifically for dactylitis, which is characterized by severe inflammation of the fingers or toes and affects up to 50 percent of individuals with this condition. These injections contain anti-inflammatory properties that effectively reduce swelling. By targeting the joint’s surrounding membrane, corticosteroids provide localized relief. They can be administered alone or in combination with other medications as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Treatment: Disease-Modifying Anti-Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs)
Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are utilized in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis as well as other inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. While each drug within this category functions in a distinct manner, their common objective is to hinder the inflammatory process. It is crucial to note that DMARDs can potentially result in various adverse effects, with the most significant being an increased susceptibility to severe bacterial, viral, and fungal infections. Typically, DMARDs are prescribed when nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) no longer provide the desired relief.