Scan of joints /psoriatic arthritis

Kittkat

Hi all
I have suffered with psoriasis and joint pains for around 5 years.
Around two years ago I got diagnosed as psa by rheum, but he never examined me . Got put on methotrexate . Then meth +sulfasalazine. No improvement . I've never had a flare up ( bar when ive sat awkwardly etc ) . Esr is normal , no outward swelling . Pain has been constant for me . But fatigue let up enough for me to work . I have a full range of movement .

My GP thinks my rheum is naff and wants me to see a specialist. My question is , Is there any way I can know if a med is working when esr is normal, no overt swelling to go by . Has anyone ever had a scan on joints ? I assume my joints must be damaged. My fingers do look slightly different prior to arthrits .

My next step was biologics , but that was put on hold due to nerve problems (which thankfully are looking benign at present ).

Thanks
Kat x

dreamdaisy

I hope I am not being dim (if I am I apologise) but to me it is unclear whether you are still taking the meth and sulph. If so then the good ESR, the lack of swelling and a good range of movement shows that they are working effectively. I know my triple therapy is working because my bloods are wonderful but my pain is constant as is tiredness - I reckon the latter is caused by the former.

What kind of specialist is your GP thinking about? DD

frogmorton

There are lots of different scans they could do Kittkat

Your GP could arrange for some if he/she is unimpressed with rheumatology???

If there's swelling ultrasound, Xrays will show bone damage, MRIs soft tissue as well etc.

I hope you get sorted soon

Love

Toni xxx