Ankylosing spondylitis is a degenerative inflammatory arthritis which causes inflammation of sacroiliac joints and spine. As it is a systemic rheumatoid disease, it can involve other organs and cause inflammation of lungs, eyes and heart valves. This disease is also known as Bechterew syndrome or Marie Struempell disease or spondyloarthritis. Men are more susceptible to this type of arthritis than women. In women, the joints other than spine are more commonly affected. This disorder may affect all age groups and onset of symptoms is more common in younger people between the age group of 17-35.
Some genetic factors are found to be causing ankylosing spondylitis. About 90% of people with ankylosing spondylitis have HLA-B27 gene. Recently, two more genes such as IL23R and ARTS1 are identified which are associated with ankylosing spondylitis. A person with the age less than 40 and positive for HLA-B27 gene and having the family history of Ankylosing Spondylitis is at the higher risk of developing this disease. The major risk factors for ankylosing spondylitis are positive HLA-B27 maker, family history of ankylosing spondylitis and frequent gastrointestinal infections. A person with genetic predisposition, immune response mediators and inflammatory bowel disease is at the higher risk of developing this disease.
The major symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis are inflammation of joints, spine and other body organs. Fatigue is the most commonly found symptom associated with an active inflammation. Inflammation of spine can cause stiffness and pain in low back, neck, upper buttock area and remainder of spine. Over time, other joints such as knees, shoulders, feet and hips may be affected. In some severe cases, the signs and symptoms like stiff and inflexible spine, chronic stooping, restricted expansion of chest, loss of appetite, weight loss, inflammation of eyes and bowl inflammation can be seen.
The diagnosis of Ankylosing Spondylitis is done on the basis of symptoms, physical examination and medical history of the patient. The blood tests such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) are performed to detect the inflammation. Complete Blood Count (CBC) test is performed to detect anemia which is common in ankylosing spondylitis. Determination of HLA-B24 gene is another important test for the diagnosis of this disorder. X-findings, CT (Computerized tomography) and MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) scan are beneficial for the detection of inflammation and changes in bones and joints.
The purpose of treatment for ankylosing spondylitis is to relieve joint pain and stiffness and prevent further complications and deformities of bones. The medications like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, corticosteroids and tumor necrosis factor blockers are found to be effective treatment measures. Physical therapy is another advantageous treatment option which helps to relieve pain and improve the flexibility and strength of the joints.
