A genetic test to detect psoriatic arthritis has been launched by drug makers DermaGenoma, Inc. The PsoriasisDX Genetic Test helps identify those at high risk of developing psoriatic arthritis before they experience arthritic symptoms.

Also, early diagnosis of the risk of developing psoriatic arthritis will help your doctor assess the best course of therapy to prevent disease progression and slow joint destruction.

The new detection method is centered on an immune response gene called MICA. The test reports the presence or absence of a specific variation in MICA.

An individual who tests positive with the gene has approximately a 60 percent chance of developing psoriatic arthritis. And a negative result means the patient has approximately a 70 percent chance of not developing psoriatic arthritis.

The currently approved treatments are effective in controlling inflammation and arresting joint destruction, but are ineffective in reversing joint damage.

“We are excited to extend this revolutionary genetics testing breakthrough to dermatologists in Europe,” says Andy Goren, CEO of DermaGenoma, Inc. “It helps doctors determine the proper treatments for patients.”

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is a painful and progressive joint disease. PsA often leaves patients with significant joint damage.

It is estimated that PsA affects between 20 to 40 percent of psoriasis patients. Among PsA patients, approximately 20 percent will progress to the more severe destructive arthritis. Prior to the introduction of the PsoriasisDX genetic test, PsA screening identified patients after the onset of the inflammatory arthritis, according to DermaGenoma.