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Researchers at The Australian National University (ANU) have identified a gene mutation, IKBKB, as the culprit behind psoriasis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition characterized by red, scaly, and itchy patches. Dr. Chelisa Cardinez of ANU explains that individuals with two copies of this mutated gene may progress to develop psoriatic arthritis, which manifests as joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. This groundbreaking discovery sheds light on the transition from skin-only psoriasis to the skin and joint involvement seen in psoriatic arthritis, potentially paving the way for enhanced diagnosis and treatment strategies. With over 500,000 Australians affected by psoriasis, including Rebecca Davey, who also battles psoriatic arthritis, the hope is that these findings will alleviate stigma and improve the lives of those living with these conditions. According to Rebecca Davey, CEO of Arthritis ACT and a sufferer of both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, the public often underestimates the profound impact these conditions can have, not only on the individual but on their entire family. Constant pain, disrupted sleep, and persistent fatigue are just some of the challenges faced. While medications have helped alleviate major skin outbreaks, meticulous consideration is required regarding skincare routines and clothing choices to prevent flare-ups. Even routine hand washing, essential for her former nursing job, exacerbated her condition, leading to her departure from the hospital system. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, both autoimmune diseases, result from the immune system mistakenly attacking healthy cells. Statistics from Arthritis Australia reveal that three in ten Australians with psoriasis will develop psoriatic arthritis. Although there's no cure, management options exist, including a new subsidized medication listed on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme in October 2023. Davey emphasizes the need to combat the stigma surrounding these conditions, highlighting the misconception of poor hygiene often associated with visible symptoms. Psoriasis, she stresses, is a painful and debilitating condition beyond the individual's control. Rebecca Davey expressed her initial confusion over the cause of her frequent hand flare-ups, highlighting the challenge faced by general practitioners who often fail to identify these conditions promptly. She emphasized the critical shortage of specialists, particularly in regional and rural areas, resulting in prolonged wait times for appointments, especially for individuals with less severe symptoms. Davey stressed the importance of raising awareness about invisible disabilities like psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, where outward appearances can be deceiving, masking daily struggles. Dr. Cardinez emphasized the detrimental impact of delayed psoriatic arthritis diagnosis on patient outcomes, underscoring the significance of early detection and treatment for immune diseases. Understanding the role of the IKBKB gene in disease onset could potentially pave the way for a cure, offering hope to countless Australians affected by these conditions.