Psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis projects in Italy: A report from the GRAPPA 2011 annual meeting

Abstract

Recent evidence that psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is more frequent and more severe than previously thought has led to several studies on genetic susceptibility, pathogenesis, clinical spectrum, diagnostic tools, and treatment of PsA. Concomitant with these studies has been the development of appropriate classification/diagnostic criteria and disease-specific outcome measures for PsA. Many Italian rheumatologists have taken part in these efforts by conducting collaborative multicenter research projects, which were described at the annual meeting of the Group for Research and Assessment of Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis (GRAPPA; Naples, Italy, July 2011). Highlights of these Italian contributions included performance of CASPAR (ClASsification for Psoriatic ARthritis) criteria in early PsA; radiological assessments of axial PsA; development and validation of the PASRI (PsA Spondylitis Radiology Index in patients with established PsA); and the effect of etanercept on axial manifestations of established PsA. The Journal of Rheumatology Copyright © 2012. All rights reserved.