This literature evaluated the clinical, economic, and humanistic burden of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The review focused on studies published between 1998 and 2009, which explored the direct and indirect costs of PsA, measures of clinical burden such as mortality, physical function, quality of life, productivity, and comorbid conditions. A total of 49 studies were reviewed, revealing that patients with PsA experience a significantly lower health-related quality of life and have a higher risk of comorbid conditions, particularly cardiovascular disease. In the U.S., direct annual healthcare costs for PsA are estimated at up to $1.9 billion, with indirect costs accounting for 52% to 72% of total costs. Both direct and indirect costs increase as disease activity and physical function worsen.

The findings highlight the considerable economic and quality-of-life burden of PsA on both patients and society. The clinical burden of PsA, including comorbidities and disease activity, contributes to reduced physical and psychosocial health-related quality of life. These clinical aspects lead to higher direct medical costs due to increased healthcare utilization. Furthermore, the physical limitations caused by PsA contribute to substantial indirect costs, such as disability and lost productivity, making these factors significant drivers of the total cost of care for patients with PsA.

Reference: Lee S, Mendelsohn A, Sarnes E. The burden of psoriatic arthritis: a literature review from a global health systems perspective. P T. 2010 Dec;35(12):680-9. PMID: 21197266; PMCID: PMC3008384.