Hellobee Boards

I don't have PA (yet) but I've had severe psoriasis for years now... In fall 2007, I was only 23, it started with a dry itchy scalp that felt like i was wearing a helmet. I had some patches on the back of my neck and on my hands. the first Derm I went to diagnosed me and sent me on my way with low grade topical steroids. over the course of the next 6 months it got way way worse. I lost about 1/3 of my hair, i couldnt wear jewelry, make up, clean/wash dishes, prep food and all my derm was giving me was low grade steroids, oils for my scalp and nothing was helping. I switched derms, he prescribed Humira and a high grade topical steroid (clobetesol). I started that in July 2008 and i finally started seeing improvement. but my October it stalled and the humira cost like $100/month had to be special shipped etc. In December I went to see my dermatological savior - Dr. Van Voorhees at UPenn. After a long first appointment and looking over her notes she asked me if i would give up alcohol for clear skin (again only 24 yrs old) I said yes and she prescribed Methotrexate which is a pretty nasty drug used to combat cancer and for chemical abortions. However It worked wonderfully. In about 3 months of playing with dosages my skin was 90% clear and managed with topicals. She also got me on a humira payment assistance so that only cost me $5/month. I had to do follow up bloodwork and appointments every 3-4 months and a yearly TB test. but the psoriasis was very well managed.
Spring 2012, I stopped taking the methotrexate in anticipation of TTC (you must be off the med 6 months +) In September 2012 I stopped taking the humira, we started TTC in November and got pregnant in January 2013. My skin remained manageable with just the topical (and i got the OK from both Derm and OB to continue it) I last saw my derm in December and i will be checking back with her after we're done nursing. but i must say i am incredibly happy with the treatment plan, and how it went from earth shattering (at 23) to a minor annoyance (at 30) the possibility for PA is always there but so far i havent crossed that bridge yet.

@kjpugs: I have just spotted this (I was looking for something else).

My husband has PA. He has had psoriasis his whole life but his joints flared up after a period of stress. It was a long road to diagnosis. He took methotrexate, which worked but made him feel really, really sick. He's currently off meds with only very minor aches......

How did your testing go?