US Bursitis and BMI Predict Joint Issues in Psoriasis
METHODOLOGY:
This prospective multicentre study included 78 patients with mild psoriasis without musculoskeletal symptoms who were not on systemic treatment; 82% of them had mild disease and 39.7% presented with onychopathy.
Researchers performed ultrasound evaluation of 40 joints and 10 entheses bilaterally at baseline and during follow-up; these were assessed for synovial hypertrophy, power Doppler signal, and entheseal changes including bursitis.
Study outcomes were the diagnosis of PsA and new-onset musculoskeletal symptoms. The median follow-up duration was 76.6 months.
TAKEAWAY:
Among 60 patients who completed the study, 6.6% developed PsA over a mean of 20.2 months according to the CASPAR criteria, corresponding to the annual incidence of approximately 1%.
Overall, 56.6% of patients developed musculoskeletal symptoms and had significantly higher BMI ( P = .013) and abdominal circumference ( P = .022) at baseline.
= .013) and abdominal circumference ( = .022) at baseline. These patients also scored higher on pain (2.14 vs 0.91; P = .047) and fatigue (3.25 vs 1.21; P = .011) components of the baseline Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease questionnaire than those not developed musculoskeletal symptoms.
= .047) and fatigue (3.25 vs 1.21; = .011) components of the baseline Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease questionnaire than those not developed musculoskeletal symptoms. Ultrasound bursitis at entheses was present in 80% of patients who developed inflammatory arthralgia suggestive of PsA ( P = .049).
= .049). The total joint ultrasound score at baseline was significantly higher in patients who developed musculoskeletal symptoms ( P = .037).
IN PRACTICE:
"Around half of the patients with PsO [psoriasis] developed MSK [musculoskeletal] symptoms during the follow-up and they had significantly higher BMI, more joint US [ultrasound] findings and scored higher in pain and fatigue scales at baseline PsAID [Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease] questionnaire, defining a subgroup with potentially higher risk to develop PsA. On the other hand, US bursitis at enthesis was related to the onset of MSK symptoms suggestive of PsA," the authors wrote.
SOURCE:
This study was led by Ana Belén Azuaga, Hospital Clinic, Barcelona, Spain. It was published online on June 04, 2025, in Rheumatology .
LIMITATIONS:
The sample size was relatively small, potentially underestimating the incidence of PsA in patients with psoriasis. The exclusion of patients with musculoskeletal symptoms and those on systemic therapy likely excluded individuals with a higher risk of developing PsA. Additionally, a significant proportion of patients initiated disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy during the study, including biologics, which could have affected the development of PsA symptoms.
DISCLOSURES:
This study was supported by research grants from Pfizer and Novartis. Additional support came from the Innovative Medicines Initiative 2 Joint Undertaking. The authors declared having no conflicts of interest.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Health Line
5 days ago
- Health Line
Understanding the Triggers for Psoriatic Arthritis Flares
Key takeaways Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) flares can be triggered by factors that increase inflammation, such as stress, skin injuries, smoking, and certain medications. Identifying and avoiding your specific triggers is crucial for managing PsA. Lifestyle changes like protecting your skin with moisturizers and sunscreen, reducing stress through exercise and relaxation techniques, and adopting an anti-inflammatory diet can help prevent PsA flare-ups. Taking medications as prescribed and quitting smoking are also important preventive measures. Connecting with support resources like the National Psoriasis Foundation and the Arthritis Foundation can provide valuable information, community, and guidance for managing PsA. These resources offer access to healthcare professionals, treatment options, and connections with others living with PsA. PsA is a type of arthritis that can affect people with the skin condition psoriasis. PsA can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. Over time, it can lead to joint damage and impair quality of life. In this article, we discuss the triggers associated with PsA, how to prevent PsA flare-ups, and where to find support. What triggers psoriatic arthritis? PsA symptoms can sometimes get worse over a period of time. This is called a flare-up. During a PsA flare-up, it's possible to experience increased: symptoms in affected joints, such as: pain stiffness swelling warmth skin symptoms of psoriasis fatigue psychological symptoms, such as depression or anxiety How often do flare-ups typically occur? A 2020 survey study including 2,238 people with PsA in the United States and Europe found that 22% of respondents had experienced a PsA flare-up in the past 12 months. Respondents reported an average of 2.2 flares over the past 12 months. A variety of things can trigger PsA flare-ups. Because the immune response is dysregulated in PsA, flare-up triggers are often things that increase inflammation in the body, particularly if they affect the skin or joints. Some PsA flare-up triggers include: skipping or stopping your psoriasis or PsA medications stress strain on your joints due to things like physical labor or overweight or obesity physical injury or trauma such as bumps, blows, or falls dry skin injury or trauma to your skin, which can happen due to things like: cuts or scrapes sunburns dermatitis bug bites skin infections getting a tattoo or piercing smoking frequent or heavy alcohol consumption cold, dry weather certain medications, such as: lithium beta-blockers antimalarial drugs Researchers report COVID-19 can trigger PsA flares in some people. Other bacterial and viral infections, like strep throat or the flu, may trigger flares as well, according to 2019 research. The things that trigger a PsA flare-up can vary between individuals. If you have PsA, it's important to determine what your flare-up triggers are so you can take steps to avoid them. What preventive practices can you follow to avoid flare-ups? While not all PsA flare-up triggers can be avoided, there are some lifestyle changes you can implement in your daily life to help prevent PsA flare-ups from happening. Protect your skin Injury or trauma to the skin can trigger flare-ups of PsA. There are many things you can do in your day-to-day life to help protect your skin. Some tips include: Use a moisturizing lotion or cream regularly to keep your skin from drying out. Some times when it's important to moisturize include: after bathing or showering after swimming during weather that's cold or dry When bathing or showering, try to keep the water temperature warm, not hot. Be sure to choose fragrance-free laundry and skin care products, which are less likely to lead to skin irritation. Use sunscreen and sun-protective clothing to prevent sunburn whenever you go outside. If you have dermatitis or a bug bite, use a cool compress or anti-itch cream to ease itching. Resist the urge to scratch, as this can further irritate your skin. Treat any cuts or scrapes promptly. Avoid getting tattoos or piercings. Take steps to lower stress Stress is a very common trigger for PsA flare-ups, so it's important to explore effective ways to reduce stress in your day-to-day life. Some examples of things to consider include: getting regular exercise doing yoga trying meditation using breathing exercises going for a walk outside listening to calming music curling up with a good book engaging in a hobby you enjoy joining a support group for people with psoriasis or PsA Consider what you eat and drink Drinking alcohol frequently or heavily can affect how your psoriasis or PsA medications work, potentially leading to a flare-up. Because of this, aim to consume alcohol in moderation if you do drink. It may also be helpful to introduce more anti-inflammatory foods into your diet. Some examples of such foods include: fresh vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and kale fresh fruits, such as berries, grapes, and tomatoes healthy fats like those found in fatty fish, avocados, and extra virgin olive oil whole grains spices with anti-inflammatory properties, such as turmeric and ginger It's also a good idea to limit or avoid foods that can lead to inflammation. Some examples include fried foods, refined carbohydrates, and processed meats. Quit smoking Smoking is a risk factor for a variety of conditions and may also lead to PsA flare-ups. As such, it's important to take steps to quit smoking. If you smoke, work with your doctor to develop a quit plan that you can stick to. Take your medications Skipping or stopping your PsA medications can cause a flare-up. Because of this, always take your medications exactly as directed by your doctor. Some types of medications can trigger PsA flare-ups. If you think a medication is causing your PsA to flare, discuss it with your doctor. It's possible that they can adjust the dosage or switch you to a different type of medication. Never stop taking any medications without first consulting your doctor. Doing so could potentially be harmful to your health. Keep a symptom journal If it's still unclear what triggers your PsA flare-ups, it may be helpful to keep a symptom journal to log things that happen in your day-to-day life. Some examples of things to include in your journal are: diet stress levels skin-care routines sleep quality recent illnesses medications or supplements you've taken any recent bumps, blows, or skin injuries You can refer back to this journal when you experience a PsA flare-up to pinpoint what may be triggering your flare-ups to occur. Where can I find resources and support for psoriatic arthritis? While medical management for PsA is important, social support is also vital. Many people with PsA can report feelings of anxiety or depression. Seeking support and connecting with others can help. The National Psoriasis Foundation has a great deal of educational information about psoriasis and PsA. It also provides many types of support resources, such as: the Patient Navigation Center, which can be accessed using phone, email, or online chat and aims to help you: find a healthcare professional in your area learn about PsA treatment options discuss health insurance and ways to lower the cost of medications connect with other individuals with PsA MyPsoriasisTeam, which is a secure online community with over 133,000 members where you can connect with other individuals around the world living with psoriasis or PsA a library of podcasts that provide up-to-date information about various psoriasis and PsA topics a list of events, either in person or online, where you can interact with others living with psoriasis or PsA The Arthritis Foundation provides information and resources for individuals with all types of arthritis, including PsA. Some of its support resources include the Live Yes! Arthritis Network. It offers an online community and virtual group chat where you can meet other people who are sharing similar experiences. It may also be helpful to talk with your doctor about support resources. They can refer you to a mental health professional who specializes in helping people with chronic conditions and may also have information about PsA support groups near you. You may also want to see a registered dietitian or nutritionist with experience working with individuals who have chronic inflammatory or autoimmune conditions. Takeaway PsA is an auto-inflammatory disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissue. The exact cause of PsA is unknown, but experts believe it involves a complex combination of genetic and environmental factors. Several risk factors may also increase the risk of PsA in people with psoriasis. Some examples include family history, age, and certain types of psoriasis symptoms. Individuals living with PsA can also have periodic flare-ups, during which their symptoms worsen. These can have a variety of triggers, such as stress, skin injury, or skipping PsA medications.
Yahoo
27-06-2025
- Yahoo
Nanostics to integrate prostate cancer test into standard of care
Nanostics has secured funding from Genome Canada and Genome Alberta to expedite the ClarityDX Prostate test integration into the standard of care for prostate cancer screening throughout the country. The funding, secured through the Canadian Biotechnology Innovation and Commercialization Initiative (CBIC), is set to accelerate the adoption of the test, starting in Alberta and eventually nationwide. This initiative is driven by partnerships in academia, clinical practice, and economics, under the guidance of the University of Alberta Translational Oncology Bird Dogs Chair Dr John Lewis, as well as collaborations with Partnerships and Innovation at Acute Care Alberta and Nanostics. The laboratory-developed test employs machine learning to assess the risk of aggressive prostate cancer. It combines blood-based biomarkers and clinical data to predict the likelihood of significant prostate cancer and is available as a patient-pay test at present. The project's main goal is to compile a comprehensive evidence package to show the clinical efficacy and economic benefits of the test. This is crucial for the reimbursement and public accessibility and will include outcomes from various studies, including health impact feasibility, clinical utility, and health system integration. Dr Lewis said: 'We are very grateful for Genome Canada's support of this project. 'This unique opportunity to collaborate directly with Acute Care Alberta will accelerate adoption of ClarityDX Prostate, and more importantly, help improve the outcomes of men in their journey of screening and diagnosis for prostate cancer.' ClarityDX Prostate aids male subjects and their healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding the need for a biopsy after a high prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test or an abnormal digital rectal exam (DRE). Its availability spans several Canadian provinces, including Alberta, Quebec, Ontario, British Columbia, and Saskatchewan. Last year, the company collaborated with OncoHelix to extend the reach of ClarityDX Prostate to the Middle East, providing the blood test to healthcare providers and patients in the region. "Nanostics to integrate prostate cancer test into standard of care" was originally created and published by Medical Device Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
New York Post
26-06-2025
- New York Post
Semen allergy is real — and often misdiagnosed. Here are the troubling signs
This is nuts! For a small but suffering contingent of women, an allergy to semen is seriously interfering with intimacy. A semen allergy, also known as seminal plasma hypersensitivity (SPH), is a rare reaction to proteins found in male spermatic fluid, according to the Cleveland Clinic. 4 A semen allergy, also known as seminal plasma hypersensitivity (SPH), is a rare allergic reaction to proteins found in male spermatic fluid. doucefleur – SPH is recognized as a Type 1 hypersensitivity, characterized by a rapid, exaggerated immune response to an allergen, putting semen in the same category as peanuts and pet dander. For those afflicted, reactions to exposure to ejaculate run the gamut from burning, itching, redness and swelling of the vulva or vagina to hives, shortness of breath, dizziness and even anaphylaxis. One Colorado college student with SPH reported that oral sex led to inflammation and temporary facial paralysis. She said that the severity of the side effects depends on the quantity of sperm she's encountered. Experts believe the condition, which can be life-threatening if there's anaphylaxis, is underreported. SPH was first documented in 1967, when a woman was hospitalized following a 'violent allergic reaction' to sex. For the next three decades, it was assumed that SPH affected fewer than 100 women worldwide. Yet, a 1997 study led by allergist Jonathan Bernstein revealed that nearly 12% of reported postcoital symptoms could be classified as SPH. 4 SPH does not directly cause infertility, but it can make conception challenging. nito – In 2013, Michael Carroll, an associate professor in reproductive science, conducted a small, unpublished survey that found a similar rate. However, he maintains that the true number may be much higher. 'Many cases go unreported, misdiagnosed or dismissed as STIs, yeast infections or general 'sensitivity,' ' Carroll wrote this week in The Conversation. 'A 2024 study reinforced this finding, suggesting that SPH is both more common and more commonly misdiagnosed than previously believed.' This condition is now believed to affect one in 40,000 people. Experts maintain that the main allergen is not sperm cells themselves, but prostate-specific antigen (PSA) in seminal plasma. 4 While condoms mitigate the risk of allergen exposure to PSA, for some unlucky lovers, allergies to semen and condoms make intimacy particularly challenging. Pixel-Shot – Interestingly, there appears to be cross-reactivity. Carroll notes that Can f 5, a protein found in dog dander, is structurally similar to human PSA, meaning that women allergic to dogs may have a higher likelihood of experiencing an allergic reaction to semen. It is also possible to be exposed to an allergen through ejaculate. In 2022, OnlyFans star Lucy Banks shared her experience of suffering an allergic reaction to peanuts from her partner's ejaculate. She has since been spreading a warning to others about the dangers of sexually transmitted food allergies — especially from a peanut-loaded penis. Diagnosis of SPH is, of course, made via skin prick. 4 Lucy Banks is warning others to be cautious of sexually transmitted food allergies after her own experience. Instagram/ @itsnotlucybanks While condoms mitigate the risk of allergen exposure to PSA, for some unlucky lovers, allergies to semen and condoms make intimacy particularly troublesome. SPH does not directly cause infertility, though conception can be challenging. Treatments for would-be parents include antihistamine medication before intercourse, anti-inflammatories after and/or desensitization therapy using diluted seminal plasma. In cases where the allergic reaction is severe, some couples turn to IVF using washed sperm free from seminal plasma to divert the allergic trigger. In rare instances, men can be allergic to semen. Known as post-orgasmic illness syndrome (POIS), the condition is characterized by extreme fatigue, weakness, a fever or sweating, mood changes or irritability, problems concentrating, a stuffy nose and itching eyes following intercourse. These symptoms can occur within seconds, minutes or even a few hours after ejaculation — and they can last from two to seven days. POIS was first documented in 2002, and more than 50 cases have been recorded worldwide. However, experts believe that, similar to SPH, the actual incidence rate could be even higher. Believed to be an autoimmune response or allergic reaction, POIS is also diagnosed via skin testing.
