Symmetric arthritis
Symmetric arthritis is the most common type of psoriatic arthritis, accounting for about 50% of cases. In symmetric arthritis, the joints on both sides of the body are affected in a symmetrical pattern. For example, if one knee is affected, the other knee is also likely to be affected. Symmetric arthritis can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in multiple joints, including the hands, wrists, elbows, knees, ankles, and feet.
Asymmetric arthritis
Asymmetric arthritis is another type of psoriatic arthritis that affects about 35% of individuals with PsA. Unlike symmetric arthritis, asymmetric arthritis does not affect joints on both sides of the body in a symmetrical pattern. Asymmetric arthritis can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in any joint, but it typically affects fewer joints than symmetric arthritis.
Distal arthritis
Distal arthritis is a type of psoriatic arthritis that primarily affects the joints at the ends of the fingers and toes. It can cause pain, swelling, and stiffness in these joints, and it may also cause nail changes, such as pitting or separation from the nail bed. Distal arthritis can occur in combination with other types of psoriatic arthritis.
Spondylitis
Spondylitis is a type of psoriatic arthritis that affects the spine and the sacroiliac joints, which connect the spine to the pelvis. It can cause back pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the spine and the pelvis. Spondylitis can also lead to inflammation in the joints between the ribs and the spine, causing chest pain.