Finally a Diagnosis

It has taken 15 years to get a correct diagnosis of PsA.

Osteoarthritis

As a child, I had psoriasis on my face, elbows, and torso. In my early twenties, I had solar urticaria. Early 30's psoriasis returned on my elbows, arms, and legs. Arthritic pain began at 40. Since there is a strong history of osteoarthritis on my Mother's side of the family, I was told I had osteoarthritis.

Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis

Yes, x-rays showed changes expected with osteoarthritis. I had other symptoms that suggested psoriatic arthritis: overwhelming fatigue; brain fog; swelling of hands; legs and ankles; flares; elevated inflammatory markers. Still, 3 rheumatologists would not listen when I described how I felt. I began to feel like I was crazy.

Rheumatologist

When I talked to my PCP once again, I finally got a referral to a rheumatologist who actually listened and ordered appropriate x-rays, blood work, and CTs. I now suspect that my mother had PsA although they did not have as good an understanding of different types of arthritis back then. I tried methotrexate but it enlarged my liver and elevated my liver Humira which didn't work for me. I just got put on Cosentyx and another round of prednisone.

Fingers crossed that this works!

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