Learning Hub

< BACK Empowering Girls in Tech: Celebrating GirlSteam 2024 Apr 25, 2024 Inspiring the Next Generation of Women in Information and Communication Technologies On 24th April, we celebrated International Girls in Information and Communication Technology Day – GirlSteam 2024, which is part of the larger initiative, International Girls in ICT Day (Girls in ICT 2024). This annual occasion is an international effort promoted by the United Nations agency ITU (International Telecommunication Union). During this event, Bárbara Ramalho (PhD student from FMH-ULisboa) presented the iPROLEPSIS project and the iPROLEPSIS Games . The primary aim was to raise awareness and encourage girls and young women to explore studies and careers in Information and Communication Technologies, especially in the field of Serious Games. iPROLEPSIS games 2.jpeg iPROLEPSIS games 1.jpeg Event banner.jpeg iPROLEPSIS games 2.jpeg 1/3 PREVIOUS NEXT

< BACK iPROLEPSIS Project Presented at HUMAN Lab Meetup Jul 15, 2024 Enhancing Learning Through Innovative Serious Games and Digital Interventions On 8 July 2024, the HUMAN Lab meetup was organised by Universidade de Lisboa (Instituto Superior Técnico, IST). During the event, Bárbara Ramalho and Hugo Escobar from FMH/IST-ULisboa presented the iPROLEPSIS project and the iPROLEPSIS Games. They discussed the project's main goals, motivations, and key milestones, providing insights into their roles in the design and development of serious games. The presentation also addressed the expected outcomes of the project, emphasising how these innovative tools are designed to enhance learning experiences and offer effective digital interventions. 1/3 PREVIOUS NEXT

Download needed promo materials for iProlepsis project for psoriatic arthritis, such as posters, flyers, logos, and color palete. Promo materials to download 01 iPROLEPSIS Poster (A0) 02 iPROLEPSIS Flyer (A5) 03 iPROLEPSIS Roll-Up Poster Logo and color palette to download PNG, transparent background SVG, transparent background SVG, transparent background #212178 #B380FF #FFAACC #37C8AB #DEEBF7 PNG, white background WEBP, transparent background

< BACK Unveiling the Future of Psoriatic Arthritis Care: Insights from Dr Laura Coates Mar 19, 2024 Exploring the iPROLEPSIS Project and Innovations in Digital Health Technologies for Enhanced Patient Care Dr Laura Coates , a researcher and clinician from the University of Oxford , guides through the research and clinical studies of the iPROLEPSIS project. In her own words: "It’s my pleasure to be leading all of the clinical studies within the iPROLEPSIS Consortium. We're focused on developing and testing apps and digital health technologies to enhance the care for patients with psoriatic arthritis ." Discover how these innovative tools aim to predict and manage psoriatic arthritis flares, identify at-risk individuals, and empower patients to take control of their health. Dr Coates elaborates on the various aspects of the research, including the development of apps that could foresee a flare, identify triggers, and even provide support for stress management and activity. Screenshot 2024-03-19 123331.png Screenshot 2024-03-19 123331.png 1/1 PREVIOUS NEXT

< BACK iPROLEPSIS 7th Plenary Meeting in Lisbon Dec 12, 2025 Partners met to review progress and next steps The iPROLEPSIS consortium held its 7th Plenary Meeting on 9–10 December 2025 in Lisbon, Portugal , organised by the Sociedade Portuguesa de Reumatologia (SPR) and hosted at NOVA Medical School . Partners joined on site and remotely for two days of focused discussions on project progress, upcoming study deployments, and priorities for the next phase of the project. Reviewing progress and open scientific issues The first day of the meeting focused on reviewing overall project progress and aligning partners on key scientific and technical developments. Updates were shared across multiple work packages, covering advances in digital phenotyping , data harmonisation , and system development . Dedicated sessions addressed open issues related to digital phenotyping methodologies and data analysis, while partners also discussed progress on data harmonisation activities supporting the project’s clinical studies. An External Advisory Board session provided valuable scientific and strategic feedback on project progress, ongoing work, and next steps. The day included a tour of NOVA Medical School facilities , offering participants insight into the host institution’s research environment. Clinical studies, ecosystem updates, and coordination The second day focused on updates from the project’s clinical studies , including IDBV, PPIDC, MOJMI, and PDPID , with detailed discussions on timelines, technical readiness, and preparations for upcoming deployments. Partners also reviewed progress on the iPROLEPSIS ecosystem, including mobile applications, data management systems, and orchestration components. Coordination, ethics, dissemination, exploitation, and regulatory planning activities were discussed, helping to define clear priorities for the months ahead. Moving forward The meeting concluded with a summary of agreed actions and priorities for the next project phase. Partners will now focus on advancing preparations for the deployment of clinical studies, addressing open technical and methodological issues, strengthening coordination across the ecosystem, and continuing dissemination, exploitation, and regulatory planning activities. Consorcio_iPROLEPSIS20251209143206.jpg 2.jpg IMG_0254.jpg Consorcio_iPROLEPSIS20251209143206.jpg 1/9 PREVIOUS NEXT

< BACK Advancing Digital Health Solutions: Updates on User Research and Co-Creation Nov 20, 2023 Navigating the Development of PDPID-App, Insights from Co-Creation Sessions Updates on user research and co-creation The current status of user research and co-creation involves a dedicated focus on advancing the development of the PDPID-app , scheduled for delivery before January 2023. In early October 2023, Erasmus MC ( EMC) conducted a co-creation session with patient partners to assess the general looks and feel of the User Interface (UI) and identify points to improve the app's usability. In apps used for medical data collection, it is of utmost importance that users know what is expected of them. Furthermore, users should be engaged with the app to a level that minimises missing data. Following this, bi-weekly meetings with patient partners were established to maintain alignment with their ideas. Furthermore, project partner FACULDADE DE MOTRICIDADE HUMANA (FMH-ULISBOA) is developing storyboards for the personalised gaming suite . Three co-creation sessions have been executed: one with healthcare professionals and two with patient partners. Additionally, project partners The Centre for Research and Technology Hellas (CERTH) and FACULDADE DE MOTRICIDADE HUMANA (FMH-ULISBOA) have been working with the clinical partners to identify movements for the video analysis tasks that will be included in the iPROLEPSIS-PDPID study. Multiple hand gestures and full-body movements have been identified for further assessment. Key take-away messages The development of the Digital health tools is still at an early stage. However, several take-away messages from the discussions about the PDPID app are : The general looks and UI of the miPROLEPSIS app have been approved by the patient partners. Even though the PDPID-app is a data-collection app for research purposes, patients find it of utmost importance that they can review their own data entries. Participants indicated that the app needs to improve its’ visual cues of when they need to perform certain activities. Take-away messages from the discussions about personalised gaming suite development: Smart games meant for disease management should be highly tailored to the capabilities of the patients. Gaming is for patients a way of relaxation, any game designed should not incorporate any stressful factors. Patient partners expressed interest in the proposed gaming categories. Future steps Future steps involve initiating a round of user testing for the PDPID version of the miPROLEPSIS app to validate designs with patients not involved in the development process. Subsequently, attention will shift to developing recommendation systems for physical activity and diet, incorporating insights from experts in the field (occupational therapists, physical therapists & nutritionists) and patients themselves. For the personalised gaming suite, the completion of the storyboard is planned for the end of December 2023, when the development of the first prototypes will follow. mIPROLEPSIS app.png mIPROLEPSIS app.png 1/1 PREVIOUS NEXT

Learning Hub Explore resources to help you understand and manage psoriatic arthritis. Learning hub Key Facts Handbook News Feed Quizzes Search Psoriatic Arthritis Handbook Managing Psoriatic Arthritis: Treatments and Lifestyle Handbook Handbook 2 How is psoriatic arthritis treated? While there is no cure for psoriatic arthritis, there are multiple drug treatment options that work to control the disease and its symptoms (3). Drug treatments specific for psoriatic arthritis focus on: DRUG TREATMENTS slowing down the progression of the condition; reducing inflammation; relieving pain; treating skin symptoms; keeping joints as mobile as possible. For most people, treatment for psoriatic arthritis will involve trying several different medications. Since many people with psoriatic arthritis have psoriasis, managing the condition can seem like treating two diseases. Some treatments work on both diseases, while others work mainly on the arthritis or skin problems. Every person diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis is different. Doctors recommend certain treatments depending on: how many and which parts of the body are affected; how severe the disease is; drug allergies and other health conditions; current medication use. Many times, people with psoriatic arthritis may need to take more than one drug at the same time to control the disease – this is called combination therapy. Combination therapy can allow for lower doses of each individual drug to be used. During flares, additional medications may be added temporarily or for the longer term.It is important to be involved in shared-decision making with your doctor(s) and adhere to the treatment plan. You should communicate any issues with medications, such as side effects or difficulty adhering to the treatment plan, so that effective steps can be taken to address the problem(s). TREATMENT FOR THE ARTHRITIS The over-the-counter and prescription medicines for psoriatic arthritis include: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs); steroid medication (corticosteroids); disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). See related Key Facts section h2.1 Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) NSAIDs can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation, but they might not be enough to treat symptoms of psoriatic arthritis (9). There are two types of NSAIDs: traditional NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac; COX-2 inhibitors, such as celecoxib and etoricoxib. Like all medicines, NSAIDs can have side effects. Your doctor will take precautions to reduce the risk of side effects by prescribing the lowest dose necessary to control your symptoms for the shortest time possible. NSAIDs can sometimes affect the stomach and intestines, causing digestive problems such as indigestion and stomach ulcers (17). A medication called a proton pump inhibitor (PPI), such as omeprazole or lansoprazole, may also be prescribed to help protect the stomach. Chronic treatment with NSAIDs can also increase the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart problems (17). Please, let your doctor know if there are risk factors that may increase your overall risk, for example, smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease. Some people have found that taking NSAIDs made their psoriasis symptoms worse. Inform your doctor if this happens to you. Steroid medication (corticosteroids) Like NSAIDs, corticosteroids can help reduce inflammation and pain (18). If you have a single painful and/or swollen joint, your doctor may inject the medication directly into the joint. The effect can last from a few weeks to several months. However, having too many steroid injections in the same joint(s) can damage the surrounding tissue and, thus, your doctor will usually not recommend more than three injections per year. When lots of joints are inflamed, corticosteroids can be taken as a tablet, or as an injection into the muscle. However, doctors are cautious about this because corticosteroids can cause side effects, such as weight gain and osteoporosis, increased risk of infection and cardiovascular events, if used for long periods of time. Because of these side effects, your doctor will prescribe you the lowest dose necessary to control your symptoms for the shortest time possible. Psoriasis can flare up when you stop using oral corticosteroids. Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) DMARDs are powerful medications that reduce inflammation and can stop psoriatic arthritis from getting worse (19). DMARDs can help prevent damage to your joints. Many DMARDs will treat both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Because this type of medicine treats the cause of your condition and not the symptoms, it can take up to three months before you feel an effect. Therefore, it is important to keep taking the medication, even if it does not seem to be working at first. Like all drugs, DMARDs can have some side effects. While DMARDs can be very effective, these medications reduce the activity of the immune system (immunosuppressants) and raise the risk of an infection. However, it is important to remember that not treating psoriatic arthritis could lead to permanent bone and joint damage. There are three types of DMARDs as described in Table 1. Table 1: Types of disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. Traditional Traditional DMARDs (csDMARDs) have been used the longest and have a broad immune- suppressing effect. These medicines are usually taken by mouth. Example: methotrexate, sulfasalazine. Biologic Biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs) disrupt key steps in the inflammatory process and generally work more quickly than traditional DMARDs. These drugs are usually injected. Example: adalimumab, etanercept. Targeted Like biologic DMARDs, targeted DMARDs (tsDMARDs) block key steps in the inflammatory process. These medications are usually taken by mouth. Example: tofacitinib. TREATMENT FOR THE PSORIASIS The over-the-counter and prescription medicines for psoriasis include: topical medications made from vitamin D, derivatives of vitamin A, salicylic acid, coal tar or corticosteroids; phototherapy that uses ultraviolet light (UVB) may be prescribed to treat and lessen skin rashes. Only your doctor should prescribe phototherapy, do not try to use sunlight or sunlamps to treat your skin on your own; some DMARDs and biological therapies used for arthritis can also help the psoriasis. VACCINES If you have psoriatic arthritis, you may have a higher risk of infection and infections may be more severe (20). This can be due to the arthritis itself or its treatment. Psoriatic arthritis, which caused by a fault of the immune system, can make you more vulnerable to infections. In addition, some of the drugs utilised to treat psoriatic arthritis (e.g., DMARDs and/ or steroids) dampen down the immune system, that is, they act as immunosuppressants, which can also make you more prone to infection. An increased risk of infection due to a medical condition and/or drugs is called immunosuppression. Your rheumatologist can provide guidance based on your age and your risk for getting certain infectious diseases (e.g., COVID-19, flu, pneumonia, shingles, or hepatitis B). Vaccines are safe and can help you avoid serious infections. See related Key Facts section Non-pharmacological treatments NON-PHARMACOLOGICAL TREATMENTS Drugs are not the only way to treat or manage the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. There are many things you can do, alongside taking prescribed medication, that can improve your life quality by lessening pain and inflammation, and improving your overall health. YOUR VOICE MATTERS Your experiences – how your therapies are working, what side affects you are experiencing, how your symptoms are affecting you, what challenges you are facing in your daily life due to psoriatic arthritis – are very important pieces of information. This information is called patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and it may be collected via a questionnaire prior to your rheumatology appointment. PROs can help your doctor assess the impact of your disease and better evaluate your treatment plan. These questionnaires can also help you self-manage your condition. Some of the questionnaires your rheumatologist may use are: PSAID (Psoriatic Arthritis Impact of Disease): measures the impact of your disease on your physical and psychological health; VAS (Visual Analogue Scale): a simple tool to track and measure your pain; IPAQ (International Physical Activity Questionnaire): measures the types of intensity of physical activity and sitting time that people do as part of their daily lives; HAQ (Health Assessment Questionnaire): measures your physical function and disability due to arthritis; FACIT-F (Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy - Fatigue): measures your fatigue that is caused by the arthritis; WPAI (Work Productivity and Activity Impairment): measures impairments in work and activities; HADS (Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale): measures the levels of anxiety and depression; PsAQoL (Psoriatic Arthritis Quality of Life): measures the quality of life in people with psoriatic arthritis; EQ-5D (EuroQol-5 Dimensions): measures quality of life in relation to 5 dimensions – mobility, usual activities, self-care, pain and discomfort, and anxiety and depression; SF-36 (Short Form-36): measures quality of life and covers 8 domains of health – physical functioning, physical role, pain, general health, vitality, social function, emotional role, and mental health. So, if your doctor or nurse asks you to fill out a questionnaire, please take the time to do it and be honest! PHYSICAL AND OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY Inflammation of joints and soft tissues can often lead to extreme pain, immobility, and dysfunction. Additionally, the arthritis can lead to difficulty in daily activities in the home and workplace. Physical and occupational therapy can help you get moving safely and effectively. Physical therapy is the most impactful if you are experiencing (21): loss of motion due to inflammation in the shoulder, wrist, hand, knee, or foot; severe enthesitis or dactylitis; inflammatory back pain. Physical therapy will focus on (21): improving mobility and restore the use of affected joints; increasing muscle strength to support the joints; maintaining fitness; preserving the ability to perform daily activities. Occupational therapy can also be helpful, especially if you are experiencing difficulties with everyday activities. See related Key Facts section h2.3 Occupational therapy can help you maximise your ability to participate in daily activities. Strategies include the use of assistive devices (e.g., braces, splints), and movement modification to help people protect their joints by performing tasks in different ways than they are used to (e.g., using both hands). SURGERY Most people diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis will never need joint surgery. However, if joints are severely damaged by the arthritis, or if other treatments do not reduce pain, damaged joints can be replaced by plastic, metal, or ceramic prosthesis to reduce pain, and improve function and quality of life. COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS Some people with psoriatic arthritis feel that complementary therapies can be helpful. However, you should always talk to your doctor before trying complementary therapies. There is no scientific evidence to support that taking any kind of dietary supplement, such as fish body oil capsules, works in treating psoriatic arthritis. In addition, there is not enough scientific evidence to support the use of complementary therapies, such as balneotherapy or acupuncture, as treatments for psoriatic arthritis. Complementary therapies can react with other treatments, so you should talk to your doctor if you are using or thinking of using any. See related Key Facts section SELF-CARE AND LIFESTYLE Sedentary behaviour Sedentary behaviour, characterised by prolonged periods of sitting, when accumulated daily for more than 8 hours or maintained for periods longer than 30 minutes without interruption, constitutes a risk to health and well-being. h2.4 h2.5 Since mechanical stress in the case of an inflammatory crisis can promote the appearance of enthesitis, it is necessary to control inflammation before increasing the level of usual physical activity or starting an exercise programme. In any case, the beneficial effects of physical activity and exercise on disease, well-being and associated comorbidities outweigh the risk of enthesitis induced by mechanical stress, which is low (25). Diet While there is no a specific diet that can treat psoriatic arthritis, adopting a nutritious and balanced eating plan can play a vital role in managing symptoms and improving overall wellbeing. Research suggests that adopting a Mediterranean-style diet (Figure 3, left-hand side), which includes fruits, vegetables, fibre, high-quality fats, and vitamins, might lessen the impact of your psoriatic arthritis (26). This type of diet has anti-inflammatory benefits that help manage disease activity. So, trying this eating approach might help you ease your psoriatic arthritis symptoms. Incorporating omega-3 fatty acids , commonly found in oily fish (such as salmon, mackerel, or flaxseeds), can also have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing joint stiffness and tenderness (27). Antioxidants found in colourful fruits and vegetables (such as berries, spinach, and kale) also offer potent anti-inflammatory properties that could alleviate joint inflammation and discomfort in people living with psoriatic arthritis. Overall, it is recommended to aim for a balanced intake of 2-5 portions of fruits and 3-5 portions of vegetables daily, as these nutrient-rich foods provide essential antioxidants that may contribute to managing joint inflammation and overall health. Figure 3: Beneficial (on the left side) and harmful (on the right side) dietary patterns. Adapted from Guilliams et al., 2023 (28). Reducing the intake of sugar, saturated fats , and sodium can help you maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is linked to a higher chance of developing psoriatic arthritis, underlining the significance of weight management, especially for psoriasis patients who often suffer from metabolic syndrome and obesity (29). In people living with psoriatic arthritis, studies suggest that sedentary behaviour may contribute to increased joint stiffness, reduced muscle strength, and compromised joint function. Additionally, a sedentary lifestyle may exacerbate symptoms such as fatigue and depression, which are common in psoriatic arthritis. While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, maintaining an active lifestyle is generally considered beneficial for managing psoriatic arthritis symptoms. The risks of sedentary behaviour increase even more when people are inactive; that is, they do not comply with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) recommendations for physical activity, described below. Physical activity Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to have numerous benefits for people living with psoriatic arthritis. Physical activity concerns all body movements resulting from muscle contraction regardless of the context in which they are carried out: leisure, transportation to and from places, or as part of a person’s work. Physical activity can help improve joint flexibility, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall joint function. Moreover, physical activity may contribute to better mental health, as it can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety that are often associated with chronic conditions like psoriatic arthritis. Physical activity also plays a role in weight management, which is essential as excess weight can increase joint stress (22). According to the WHO, it is recommended to accumulate at least ~20 minutes per day of physical activity, such as brisk walking (23). This recommendation is also adopted by the European Alliance of Associations for Rheumatology (24). A 20-minute physical activity of moderate intensity corresponds to an accumulation of around 2000 steps. Considering a functional activity of 4500 steps per day associated with carrying out activities of daily living such as grooming, cooking, cleaning, travelling to and from work/school, the WHO recommendations, when expressed in total number of steps per day, represent the sum of the two types of activity and correspond to an accumulation of 6500 daily steps under normal living conditions. Physical exercise The most beneficial types of exercise for psoriatic arthritis focus on improving flexibility, strength, and cardiovascular fitness without causing excessive joint stress. Low-impact activities such as swimming, walking, and cycling are often recommended. Strength training exercises, including resistance training and gentle yoga, can help enhance muscle support around the joints. Water-based exercises are particularly advantageous as they provide buoyancy, reducing impact on the joints. The benefits of these exercises include increased joint mobility, reduced pain and stiffness, improved muscle tone, and better overall well-being. People living with psoriatic arthritis should adopt a tailored physical activity routine, considering their specific symptoms and limitations. The iPROLEPSIS app intends to help you limit sedentary behaviours, increase physical activity, and improve daily functional capacity with specific and safe training program recommendations (for more information see section “iPROLEPSIS”). Excess weight can increase joint discomfort and inflammation, particularly in load-bearing joints (such as the hips, knees, and spine). Thus, be mindful of your dietary choices, as these can help you manage your symptoms. Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption, which is necessary for maintaining healthy bones. Additionally, vitamin D helps boost our immune system, fight off viruses, and combat fatigue. It has even been linked to good mood, with a deficiency potentially leading to anxiety and depression. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our bodies produce when the skin is exposed to sunlight. It can also be obtained from certain foods or supplements. This vitamin has several forms, but the most important ones are vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) and vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). Vitamin D3 is the form that our skin produces naturally in response to sunlight. Research indicates that people with psoriatic arthritis often have lower vitamin D levels than others (30). Having enough vitamin D might help ease some psoriatic arthritis symptoms. The best way to ensure this is through adequate sun exposure. Spending around 10 to 30 minutes in the sun between 10 AM and 3 PM, at least twice a week, is generally sufficient for most individuals to produce enough vitamin D. The exact time needed depends on factors such as skin type, latitude, altitude, and season. The Medical Board of the National Psoriasis Foundation recommends vitamin D supplementation for psoriatic arthritis patients and encourages overweight or obese patients to explore weight reduction through a controlled diet (31). However, you must seek advice from your doctor. Hydration is another key aspect often overlooked, but crucial in managing psoriatic arthritis. Though there are no specific hydration guidelines for people with psoriatic arthritis, drinking around two litres of water daily not only supports maintaining overall health (32), but also helps in joint lubrication and efficient functioning, easing discomfort associated with movement. Some individuals find that certain foods may trigger or exacerbate their psoriatic arthritis symptoms. While these triggers can vary among individuals, common contributors include red and processed meat, low-quality fats, salt and additives, and refined carbohydrates (Figure 3 ; right-hand side). Monitoring your diet and identifying potential trigger foods through a systematic dietary approach or under the guidance of a healthcare professional can help manage pain, fatigue, and flare-ups (33). It is essential to find guidance from a healthcare provider or a dietitian with expertise in psoriatic arthritis to develop a personalised dietary plan (28) aligned with individual preferences and needs. A personalised plan aims to guarantee sufficient nutrient intake, manage weight, and promote overall well-being, addressing the unique challenges associated with psoriatic arthritis. Moreover, embracing a healthy lifestyle, including consistent physical activity, stress management, and a well-balanced diet, holds significant potential to improve the quality of life for people with psoriatic arthritis. Smoking and alcohol consumption Smoking is bad for your overall health, as it increases the likelihood of potential complications, such as heart problems and cancer. Smoking can also make you less sensitive to treatment and worsen your psoriasis symptoms (34, 35). Alcohol can interfere with the effectiveness of some drugs or increase side effects (36, 37). Some studies also suggest that alcohol may act as a trigger for flare-ups (38). See related Key Facts section See related Key Facts Previous page Next page

< BACK Hot topic debate: preventing psoriatic arthritis in patients with psoriasis Nov 13, 2024 Preventing PsA: Insights from the IFPA-WPPA 2024 Conference Conference IFPA-WPPA 2024 Conference At the 7th World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis (IFPA-WPPA) Conference , experts discussed whether effective treatment for psoriasis (PsO) could help prevent the onset of psoriatic arthritis (PsA). In this session, Prof. Laura Coates highlighted early intervention as a key strategy for PsA prevention. Supporting these efforts, the iPROLEPSIS consortium, active across Europe, is exploring digital, non-pharmacological tools aimed at improving patient outcomes. These include stress management games designed to offer additional support for people with PsO, focusing on prevention beyond medications alone. Alongside iPROLEPSIS, other studies, including the PAMPA study and HIPPOCRATES Prospective Observational Study (HPOS), are investigating early detection and intervention strategies. Digital tools such as the Psorcast app, along with new apps from iPROLEPSIS, are being developed to monitor psoriasis patients for early signs of PsA. These efforts aim to pave the way for more personalised and preventive care approaches. Abstract Can effective treatment of psoriasis (PsO) prevent the development of psoriatic arthritis (PsA)? In a Hot Topic Debate at the 7th World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Conference, Dr. Soriano and Dr. Ogdie, both experts in the field, presented contrasting views based on existing research and clinical studies.1 Dr. Soriano argued that biologic treatments for PsO may reduce PsA risk, citing several retrospective studies. On the other hand, Dr. Ogdie argued that current observational data are plagued by biases, making it difficult to conclude whether biologics play a protective role. The session outlined the complexity of this issue, with both speakers agreeing on the need for prospective randomised controlled trials, such as the ongoing PAMPA study, to provide definitive answers. Prof. Laura Coates added that identifying at-risk patients and intervening early to potentially prevent PsA may point to a strategic research approach to address these unanswered questions. Read the full article: https://conferences.medicom-publishers.com/proceedings/proceedings-in-dermatology/7th-ifpa-wppa-conference/preventing-psoriatic-arthritis-in-patients-with-psoriasis/ 1/1 PREVIOUS NEXT

< BACK Developing Sensorimotor Art Games for Psoriatic Arthritis using Agile Storyboarding and Game Co-Design Processes Jul 31, 2024 Innovative Sensorimotor Art Games for Psoriatic Arthritis: Agile Storyboarding and Co-Design Approaches Serious Games (SGs) have the potential to provide clinical care and enhance patients’ quality of life, while incorporating an element of entertainment. As part of the iPROLEPSIS Horizon Europe project, we introduce two Sensorimotor Art games designed as SGs to assist Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA) patients in managing their symptoms. These SGs provide a platform for self-expression and pain relief through engaging in rhythmic puzzle activities. The co-design process for the proposed Sensorimotor Art games followed an agile methodology, involving 14 experts (including clinicians, researchers, and game developers), to gather feedback on game requirements, storyboards, and mechanics. From the thematic analysis of the transcribed discussion, four main themes emerged, namely: Clinical value (Theme 1), Motor skills and adaptation (Theme 2), Creative engagement (Theme 3), and Feedback and future directions (Theme 4). Clinical value underlines the therapeutic benefits of Sensorimotor Art games for pain distraction and emotional well-being. Motor skills and adaptation focus on hand/finger use and adapting games for older patients. Creative engagement emphasizes fostering creativity, a positive environment, and goal achievement. Finally, Feedback and future directions highlight the importance of continuous feedback and occupational therapists’ involvement in coming sessions. The development of Sensorimotor Art games lays the groundwork for digital interventions to alleviate psychological distress and improve fine motor symptoms in PsA patients. At the same time, these SGs can also provide insights to healthcare providers and policymakers for developing future digital solutions tailored to PsA patients. Read the full publication: https://zenodo.org/records/13142606 Ramalho et al_DSAI_2024 .pdf Download PDF • 1.29MB 1/1 PREVIOUS NEXT

Learning Hub Explore resources to help you understand and manage psoriatic arthritis. Handbook Learning hub Key Facts Handbook News Feed Quizzes Search Handbook 1 Psoriatic Arthritis Handbook Understanding Psoriatic Arthritis h1.1 What is psoriatic arthritis? Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis linked with psoriasis, a chronic skin and nail disease. Psoriasis causes red, scaly rashes and thick, pitted fingernails. Psoriatic arthritis is characterized by joint swelling (inflammation), pain and stiffness and can affect any peripheral joint such as fingers, toes, knees and/or spine. It also affects the insertion of tendons or ligaments in bones (enthesitis). Between 20-40% of people with the skin condition psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis (1, 2). Symptoms affecting their joints tend to develop 5 to 10 years after psoriasis is diagnosed but it can occur at any time (3). Currently, it is not clear why some people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis while others do not. The arthritis of psoriatic arthritis comes in 3 forms: oligoarticular arthritis that affects 4 or less peripheral joints (e.g., joints in the fingers, toes, knees); polyarticular arthritis that involves 5 or more peripheral joints on both sides of the body; and axial arthritis that affects the joints of the spine including the sacroiliac joint (where the spine connects to the pelvis). Some people may develop psoriasis after or at the same time as symptoms of psoriatic arthritis present themselves (4). In rare cases, people may have psoriatic arthritis and never have any noticeable symptoms of psoriasis. Psoriatic arthritis and psoriasis are chronic inflammatory conditions that are caused by a fault in the immune system. Our immune system protects us from infection and illness. See related Key Facts section What causes psoriatic arthritis? While psoriatic arthritis can occur at any age, most people present their first signs and symptoms at 30-50 years. Psoriatic arthritis is most likely to be diagnosed within the first ten years of the psoriasis diagnosis (3). Psoriatic arthritis affects both sexes equally. However, the manifestations in terms of severity and impact of the disease differ between sexes. Men are more likely to have involvement of the bones in the spine (axial arthritis) and radiographic damage in the spine and peripheral joints (e.g., fingers, knees and toes), whereas women are more likely to experience impaired quality of life and severe limitations in function (5). Researchers are not sure why some people develop psoriatic arthritis. It is thought that certain genes inherited from parents and grandparents can make a person more likely to develop psoriatic arthritis (6–8). h1.2 In people with a higher genetic predisposition to develop psoriatic arthritis, the condition can be triggered by environmental factors, such as: an infection (9); an accident or injury (10, 11); being overweight (12); smoking (13, 14). Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis are not contagious. You cannot catch psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis from other people. See related Key Facts section What are the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis? Psoriatic arthritis symptoms usually develop slowly, that is, many people are unaware that they are developing psoriatic arthritis (Figure 1). Although symptoms can develop suddenly in rarer cases. Some of the main symptoms include (15): pain in one or more joints; swelling in one or more joints; stiffness in one or more joints that lasts for 30 minutes or longer. These symptoms are caused by inflammation and can affect any joint in the body. See Figure 2 for the most commonly affected joints. See related Key Facts section h1.3 Psoriatic arthritis can cause pain and swelling in the entheses, that is, places in the body where tendons and ligaments connect to the bones (15). When the entheses become inflamed it is known as enthesitis. Enthesitis pain can spread along a wider area than joint pain. It frequently occurs at the back of the heel or on the bottom of the foot, which can make standing or walking difficult. Affected areas feel tender to touch even when just a small amount of pressure is applied. The knees, hips, elbows and chest can also be affected by enthesitis. Many people with psoriatic arthritis have swollen fingers or toes, a condition that is known as dactylitis (15) (Figure 1). It most commonly affects one or two fingers or toes at a time. Psoriatic arthritis can also cause small round dents in fingernails and/or toenails, a condition known as pitting. The nails can change colour, become thicker, or even lift away from your finger (15). People living with psoriatic arthritis may feel very tired (fatigued) and some may have a low-grade fever. Fatigue does not get better with rest. Psoriatic arthritis symptoms may come and go. A period of increased inflammation and worsening of other symptoms is called a flare. A flare can last for days or months See related Key Facts section h1.5 How is psoriatic arthritis diagnosed? A timely and accurate diagnosis is an important step for optimising care and improve long-term health outcomes (16). If you have been diagnosed with psoriasis in the past, and symptoms of arthritis (e.g., painful or swollen joints) have started more recently, you may have developed psoriatic arthritis. However, the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can look like other health conditions. Make sure to see your healthcare provider for a diagnosis. The doctor you see first may depend on whether you have previously been diagnosed with psoriasis. If you develop symptoms of arthritis your primary care or skin doctor should refer you to a rheumatologist – a doctor who specialises in joint conditions – for an assessment. Tell your doctor if you have a history of psoriasis and/or psoriatic arthritis in your family. CURRENTLY, NO SINGLE TEST CAN CONFIRM PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS (15). A diagnosis will be made based on your medical history, symptoms, and a physical examination by your doctor. Your doctor may order X-rays or other types of imaging, such as ultrasound scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), to look for changes to your bones and joints. Imaging studies will help your doctor determine the type and pattern of joint involvement, which can also help them distinguish between arthritis types. Blood tests, such as erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C-reactive protein, can help to identify inflammation. Your doctor may also order tests for rheumatoid factor and the anti-CCP antibody to rule out rheumatoid arthritis and HLA-B types to look for your genetic predisposition to spondylarthritis. See related Key Facts section h1.4 See related Key Facts Previous page Next page

< BACK iPROLEPSIS Clinical Studies' Planning Feb 12, 2023 iPROLEPSIS team starts the planning of the four clinical studies that will be conducted in the project. iPROLEPSIS team starts the planning of the four clinical studies that will be conducted in the project. iPROLEPSIS plans to carry out: 1) a study to design novel digital biomarkers for PsA; 2) a study to investigate new opto-acoustics biomarkers and the role of mast cells in PsA; 3) a study to validate the potential of the novel digital biomarkers to screen for PsA in persons with psoriasis; and 4) a study to evaluate the effectiveness of the envisioned iPROLEPSIS digital care ecosystem in reducing flares of persons with PsA. Office Scene .jpg Office Scene .jpg 1/1 PREVIOUS NEXT

Meet our people Meet the people behind the iPROLEPSIS project. Coordination About team Software development About team Clinical experts About team Ethics, legal and exploitation About team Data sience About team Dissemination and communication About team