What type of arthritis is characterized by changes in the distal and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints?

From the Guidelines

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is the type of arthritis characterized by changes in the distal and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints, particularly when accompanied by nail changes, as noted in the 2019 American College of Rheumatology/National Psoriasis Foundation guideline for the treatment of PsA 1. The involvement of DIP and PIP joints in PsA can manifest as stiffness, pain, swelling, and tenderness of the joints and surrounding ligaments and tendons, including dactylitis and enthesitis, which are characteristic features of this condition 1. Some key points to consider in the diagnosis and management of PsA include:

• The distribution of joint involvement, with PsA affecting both DIP and PIP joints, and often accompanied by nail changes such as pitting and onycholysis 1
• The presence of systemic symptoms, such as morning stiffness, and extra-articular manifestations, such as skin and nail changes, which can help differentiate PsA from other types of arthritis 1
• The importance of early identification and treatment of PsA to improve long-term outcomes and reduce the risk of progressive joint damage and mortality 1
• The availability of various treatment options for PsA, including nonpharmacologic and pharmacologic therapies, such as NSAIDs, intraarticular injections, and immunomodulatory therapies, which can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life 1

From the Research

Arthritis Characterized by Changes in Distal and Proximal Interphalangeal (PIP) Joints

• The type of arthritis characterized by changes in the distal and proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints is Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) 2.
• PsA is a chronic inflammatory disease that can cause arthritis and psoriasis, as well as other extra-articular manifestations 3.
• The involvement of the PIP joints, particularly the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints, is more common in PsA than in other types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA) 2, 4.
• The radiographic characteristics of PsA, including the involvement of the DIP joints, can be useful in differentiating it from other types of arthritis, such as seropositive and seronegative RA 2.
• The clinical features of PsA, including the involvement of the PIP joints, can vary depending on the individual patient and the severity of the disease 3, 2.