Use of Serum M2BP and MSUS to Predict Arthritis in Psoriatic Patients

Aims of the study: 1. Measurement of serum level of Mac 2 binding protein among patients with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and subclinical psoriatic arthritis compared with healthy individuals. 2. Evaluation of MSUS findings in patients with PsA and subclinical psoriatic arthritis 3. Evaluation of the role of serum level of Mac 2 binding protein and MSUS in predicting arthritis among psoriatic patients.

Psoriasis is a quite common chronic, inflammatory immune-mediated skin disease affecting about 2% of the population . Also psoriasis is a strong risk factor for the development of several comorbidities of which the most common is psoriatic arthritis (PsA). The presence of cutaneous psoriasis indicates a high risk for developing PsA. Studies conducted in dermatology clinics have shown a high prevalence of undiagnosed PsA in psoriasis patients , therefore identifying soluble biomarkers for PsA in psoriasis patients may help in early diagnosis, and thereby prevent disability and improve quality of life . Mac 2 binding protein \[M2BP\] is thought to be a marker of synovial cell activation and joint destruction .M2BP may be involved in the pathogenesis of PsA . Recently, with the introduction of new medications and wider use of musculoskeletal ultrasound (US) imaging in clinical practice, the possibility of earlier US diagnosis in patients with psoriasis in the pre-clinical phase of PsA has been examined.