Psoriatic Arthritis – Additional Tests

Transcript

Regular blood testing and x-rays are helpful to understand the progression of the disease and adjust treatments. The sedimentation rate, or ESR, and the C reactive protein, also referred to as CRP, are used to monitor for the disease. These are the markers of inflammation. In case of uncontrolled disease, these markers are elevated. The medications used to treat arthritis could cause side effects. Blood testing are required to monitor such side effects. Monitoring of kidney function, liver function, and blood counts are needed to recognize these side effects. X-rays are repeated every few years. They help identify any joint damage and guide treatment changes.