Author ORCID Identifier
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
Winter 3-20-2026
College/Unit
School of Medicine
Department/Program/Center
Family Medicine
Abstract
Glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are widely used for the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity, with growing evidence of their anti-inflammatory effects. We report the case of a 54-year-old woman with obesity, T2DM, and biopsy-confirmed plaque psoriasis who developed joint pain and stiffness consistent with psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Her symptoms persisted despite appropriate trials of topical corticosteroids, calcipotriene, and oral apremilast. She also declined methotrexate due to concerns about side effects. Imaging of her hands revealed distal interphalangeal joint space narrowing, marginal erosions, and periosteal reaction, supporting the diagnosis of PsA. The patient was initiated on semaglutide (0.25 mg weekly) to address metabolic comorbidities. Within two weeks, she experienced near-complete resolution of both joint and skin symptoms, sustained over six months along with a 20-pound weight loss and stable glycemic control. This case highlights the potential role of GLP-1 RAs in modulating inflammatory disease activity in PsA, particularly in patients with overlapping metabolic conditions. Further research is warranted to explore their therapeutic value in inflammatory arthropathies.
Digital Commons Citation
Capito, Joseph E. and Gelman, Kate, "Rapid Resolution of Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms Following Initiation of a GLP-1 Receptor Agonist" (2026). Faculty & Staff Scholarship. 3310.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/faculty_publications/3310
Source Citation
Gelman K, Capito JE. Rapid resolution of psoriatic arthritis symptoms following initiation of a GLP-1 receptor agonist. West Virginia Medical Journal. 2026;122(1):25-27.
Included in
Amino Acids, Peptides, and Proteins Commons, Endocrine System Diseases Commons, Skin and Connective Tissue Diseases Commons