 Health Guide Drug Guide Images Ankylosing spondylitisDefinitionAnkylosing spondylitis is a long-term disease that causes inflammation of the joints between the spinal bones, and the joints between the spine and pelvis. It eventually causes the affected spinal bones to join together. See also: Arthritis Alternative NamesRheumatoid spondylitis; Spondylitis; Spondylarthropathy; Seronegative bundle arthropathy CausesThe cause of ankylosing spondylitis is unknown, but genes seem to play a role. The disease most often begins between ages 20 and 40, but may begin before age 10. It affects more males than females. Risk factors include:
SymptomsThe disease starts with low back pain that comes and goes.
You may lose motion or mobility in the lower spine. You may not be able to fully expand your chest because the joints between the ribs are involved. Fatigue is also a common symptom. Other, less common symptoms include:
Exams and TestsTests may include:
TreatmentYour doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain. Corticosteroid therapy or medications to suppress the immune system may also be prescribed. Drugs called TNF-inhibitors (etanercept, adalimumab, infliximab), which block an inflammatory protein, have been shown to improve the symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis. Some health care professionals use drugs that block cell growth (cytotoxic drugs) in people who do not respond well to corticosteroids or who are dependent on high doses of corticosteroids. Surgery may be done if pain or joint damage is severe. Exercises can help improve posture and breathing. Lying flat on the back at night can help maintain normal posture. Outlook (Prognosis)The course of the disease is unpredictable. Symptoms may come and go at any time. Most people are able to function unless the hips are severely involved. Possible ComplicationsRarely, people may have problems with the aortic heart valve (aortic insufficiency) and heart rhythm problems. Some patients may have pulmonary fibrosis or restrictive lung disease. When to Contact a Medical ProfessionalCall your health care provider if:
PreventionPrevention is unknown. Awareness of risk factors may allow early detection and treatment. ReferencesGoldman L, Ausiello DA. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007. Sidiropoulos PI, Hatemi G, Song IH, et al. Evidence-based recommendations for the management of ankylosing spondylitis: systematic literature search of the 3E Initiative in Rheumatology involving a broad panel of experts and practising rheumatologists. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2008. 47(3):355-61. Dagfinrud H, Kvien TK, Hagen KB. Physiotherapy interventions for ankylosing spondylitis. Cochrane Database, Syst Rev. 2008. (1):CD002822.
Review Date:
5/31/2009 Reviewed By: Mark James Borigini, Associate Clinical Professor of Medicine, University of California, Irvine, Irvine, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997-
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