infection and psoriatic Arthritis

Q: Which infection is associated with psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)? - select one

A) Staphylococcal

B) Streptococcal 

Answer: B

Although not confirmed, there is some weak evidence that points to PsA may be preceded by streptococcal infection. One classic example is the occurrence of guttate psoriasis after streptococcal infection. Also, improvement in PsA skin lesions after tonsillectomy has been reported. Skin biopsy and analysis of psoriatic and psoriatic plaques showed increased bacterial diversity, including more Streptococcus, compared to the control group.

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References:

1. Thorleifsdottir RH, Sigurdardottir SL, Sigurgeirsson B, et al. Improvement of psoriasis after tonsillectomy is associated with a decrease in the frequency of circulating T cells that recognize streptococcal determinants and homologous skin determinants. J Immunol 2012; 188:5160.

2. Rasmussen JE. The relationship between infection with group A beta hemolytic streptococci and the development of psoriasis. Pediatr Infect Dis J 2000; 19:153.

3. Vasey FB, Deitz C, Fenske NA, et al. Possible involvement of group A streptococci in the pathogenesis of psoriatic arthritis. J Rheumatol 1982; 9:719.