ALIGN PsA: Advancing a Multidisciplinary Approach in PsA

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that is associated with several comorbidities and co-manifestations that reduce patient quality of life. Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a form of spondyloarthritis that is associated with psoriasis and typically involves peripheral disease, axial disease, enthesitis, dactylitis, and skin and nail lesions. Psoriatic arthritis is associated with a substantial psychosocial and functional burden and can lead to irreversible joint damage if left untreated. Early and accurate diagnosis of PsA is critical. The symptoms of PsA span the fields of dermatology and rheumatology, and professional societies recommend co-management between rheumatologists and dermatologists to optimally treat the condition. Dermatologists must be familiar with the hallmarks of PsA, while rheumatologists should understand the impact that cutaneous manifestations of PsA can have on quality of life. Current models of co-management include combined clinics and virtual clinics, which have had success in case reports. Co-management of PsA has been associated with more use of biologics, better preventive care, and higher patient satisfaction.