NHS Forth Valley has launched a new clinical trial at Forth Valley Royal Hospital to give local patients access to an innovative new treatment for psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis is a type of arthritis that develops in around 1 in 4 people with the skin condition psoriasis. It affects the joints and can cause them to become swollen, stiff and painful.

In most cases, people will experience problems with their skin before they notice any symptoms in their joints however, in a small number of cases, skin problems may start at the same time as joint problems or develop later.

Psoriatic arthritis can be caused by the immune system wrongly attacking healthy tissue. It’s unclear why some people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis and others don’t.

The study, led locally by Dr Hanna Johnsson, NHS Forth Valley Consultant Rheumatologist, is focused on evaluating the safety and effectiveness of a new drug designed to reduce joint pain and swelling and improve the control of the disease in patients with active psoriatic arthritis.

Dr Johnsson said: “This is an exciting opportunity to explore a potential new treatment option for people living with psoriatic arthritis. We’re proud to be involved in this important research which could improve outcomes and quality of life for patients.”

Staff are now recruiting eligible patients under the care of NHS Forth Valley’s Rheumatology Team.

This latest trial highlights NHS Forth Valley’s ongoing commitment to advancing medical research and expanding access to innovative drugs and therapies. With a growing number of clinical trials taking place across a wide range of specialties, patients are encouraged to speak to healthcare professionals involved in their care about opportunities to participate in research studies.

Further information about this trial or other research opportunities in NHS Forth Valley can contact NHS Forth Valley’s Research and Development Team at fv.randd-depart@nhs.scot