Autoimmune/Rheumatic

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It causes inflammation of the spinal joints (vertebrae) that can lead to severe, chronic pain and discomfort. In more advanced cases, this inflammation can cause new bone to form on the spine, causing the spine to fuse in a fixed, immobile position, sometimes creating a hunched-forward posture.

6

Symptoms

2

Causes

5

Treatments

2

Prevention

Condition Overview

Understand key symptoms, causes, diagnosis options, and treatment pathways for Ankylosing Spondylitis. This overview is intended for patient awareness and should be followed by specialist consultation.

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Symptoms

  • Pain and stiffness in the lower back and hips, especially in the morning and after periods of inactivity
  • Neck pain
  • Fatigue
  • Pain and swelling in other joints such as the shoulders, hips, knees, and feet
  • Vision problems and eye pain (uveitis)
  • Skin rashes

Causes

  • Unknown, but genetic factors are involved
  • HLA-B27 gene is present in most people with this condition

Diagnosis

  • Physical examination
  • X-rays
  • MRI
  • Blood tests including HLA-B27
  • Inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP)

Treatment

  • NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
  • Biologic medications (TNF blockers, IL-17 inhibitors)
  • Physical therapy
  • Exercise
  • Surgery in severe cases

Risk Factors

  • Male sex
  • Age (late teens or early twenties)
  • HLA-B27 gene
  • Family history

Prevention

  • No known prevention
  • Exercise and physical therapy can help manage symptoms

Prevalence

Ankylosing spondylitis affects about 0.1% to 0.5% of the adult population.