Effectiveness of biologics on synovitis and enthesitis using musculoskeletal ultrasound assessment in subclinical psoriatic arthritis: A 12-week observational real-world study.

BACKGROUND

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a condition that can lead to permanent joint deformities. It is crucial to find ways to prevent psoriasis from progressing to PsA.

OBJECTIVE

To observe the short-term efficacy of biologics on synovitis and enthesitis in subclinical psoriatic arthritis (Sub-PsA) using musculoskeletal ultrasound.

METHODS

This study is a multicenter, observational, prospective real-world study. Sub-PsA patients were screened from patients with moderate to severe psoriasis without joint symptoms using musculoskeletal ultrasound. All patients received their first biologic treatment, and musculoskeletal ultrasound was repeated after 12 weeks to assess changes in joint synovitis and enthesitis.

RESULTS

Among 178 enrolled moderate to severe psoriasis patients without joint symptoms, 22 Sub-PsA patients were identified. At week 0, the synovitis and enthesitis scores were 12.5 (4.1), decreasing to 8.4 (2.8) by week 12 (P < .001). At week 0, the small joint synovitis score was 10.5 (3.8), which reduced to 6.9 (2.5) by week 12 (P < .001).

LIMITATIONS: Limited sample size may introduce bias.

CONCLUSION

Biologics treatment can significantly improve joint synovitis and enthesitis in Sub-PsA patients in the short term, especially for small joint synovitis.