|  | Conditions Treatments | Arthritis

Signs and Symptoms of Juvenile Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition where psoriasis -- a chronic inflammatory skin disorder -- occurs along with joint inflammation. It is responsible for eight to twenty percent of cases of arthritis in children, according to WebMD's Emedicine Health site. In many children, just one joint will be affected, but other cases will involve pain in multiple joints. Juvenile psoriatic arthritis may cause bone growth problems later in life. It's important to learn the symptoms of this disease so treatment can start early.

  1. Skin Irritation

    • Psoriasis symptoms usually occur before arthritis symptoms. They include scaly, red, irritated skin on the scalp, around the navel, or in skin folds. These patches also form on the knees and elbows. Skin affected by psoriasis may itch or feel as though it's burning. In some cases, patches of dry skin can crack and develop pustules. Children with psoriasis symptoms usually have thinner, less scaly skin than adults, and are more likely to have flareups on the face or the diaper region.

    Nail Changes

    • Juvenile psoriatic arthritis often occurs in the fingers and toes, attacking not only the joint, but the nearest nail. The finger and toenails may become deformed, pitted, or loosen. They may also show yellow spots or horizontal yellow lines. The larger the number of pits, the greater the chances are that the child is suffering from psoriasis. Children may not be able to look for this symptom on their own. Examine your child's fingers and toenails if you suspect juvenile psoriatic arthritis.

    Eye Symptoms

    • A significant number of people suffering from psoriatic arthritis also have eye symptoms, including inflammation of the iris and the conjunctiva -- the membrane on the inner part of the eyelid and the eyeball. These symptoms can cause vision problems if allowed to progress untreated. They may be mistaken for pinkeye in young children. Children suspected of juvenile psoriatic arthritis should see an eye doctor annually.

    Joints

    • Juvenile psoriatic arthritis causes joint pain and swelling. The fingers and toes are usually affected first, and may appear sausage-like, due to retained fluid. The pain is usually milder than that of rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis is less likely to deform the joints. In the long term, it can cause serious damage, though. Juvenile psoriatic arthritis may also affect the tendons in the heel and sole of the foot, and the hip joint.

Arthritis - Related Articles