Comparing Doctor Evaluation and Questionnaire Methods to Detect Psoriatic Arthritis in Adults with Psoriasis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating methods to improve early diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis PsA in patients with psoriasis. The study compares a screening approach based on a physicians dermatologists musculoskeletal MSK evaluation with a questionnaire completed by the patient. Early diagnosis is important because delays over six months can lead to worse joint and functional outcomes. Current screening tools have good sensitivity but low specificity, leading to many unnecessary referrals this study aims to test if adding dermatologist evaluation improves screening accuracy. Participants are patients with psoriasis who have not been previously diagnosed with PsA or evaluated by a rheumatologist for PsA, except if new MSK symptoms occurred after a past evaluation. The study groups will be formed based on questionnaire PEST results combined with the dermatologists MSK assessment. Researchers will compare the proportion of patients diagnosed with PsA among groups defined by positive or negative results from both the questionnaire and dermatologist evaluation. Participants will be seen by both dermatologists and rheumatologists ideally on the same day, but assessments may occur within a 4-week window. The primary outcome is the proportion of patients diagnosed with PsA confirmed by a rheumatologist. The study is observational and involves evaluating the screening and referral process. Total participation involves undergoing these clinical assessments and providing informed consent.

Physician- vs Questionnaire-Based Screening for Psoriatic Arthritis in Psoriasis