Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the attachment points between tendons, ligaments, or capsule and bone. It causes arthritis of the joints, mainly the spine and pelvis (sacroiliac joints). Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause inflammation of the eyes, lungs, or heart valves.
In severe cases, new bone may develop between the spinal bones. This can cause some areas of the spine to fuse. This fusion will decrease the flexibility and movement of the spine.
The cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not known. Some cases may be associated with a problem in a specific gene.
Factors that may increase your chance of ankylosing spondylitis include:
The severity of symptoms can vary from mild to very severe.
Common symptoms may include:
Less common symptoms may include:
The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Diagnosis is based on common symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis, such as:
Blood tests may be done to check for:
Images of involved joints may be taken with:
There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis. Treatment is aimed at providing education and relieving the symptoms.
Treatments may include:
Medication may help to control pain and inflammation. They may include:
Physical therapy may help prevent progression and worsening of symptoms. Treatment may include:
In severe cases, hip or joint replacement surgery may be needed. It will be done to relieve pain and help you move around easier. In some instances, spinal surgery is needed to allow an upright posture.
There are no guidelines for preventing ankylosing spondylitis because the cause is unknown.
Arthritis Foundation
Spondylitis Association of America
The Arthritis Society
Canadian Spondyloarthritis Association
Ankylosing spondylitis. Spondylitis Association of America website. Available at: http://www.spondylitis.org/About-Spondylitis/Ankylosing-Spondylitis. Accessed November 10, 2017.
Ankylosing spondylitis. University of Washington Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Department website. Available at: http://www.orthop.washington.edu/?q=patient-care/articles/arthritis/ankylosing-spondylitis.html. Accessed November 10, 2017.
10/2/2009 DynaMed Plus Systematic Literature Surveillance http://www.dynamed.com/topics/dmp~AN~T143424/Ank...sing-spondylitis: FDA approves new drug to treat psoriasis. US Food and Drug Administration website. Available at: http://www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/Newsroom/PressAnnouncements/ucm183851.htm. Updated April 17, 2013. Accessed December 17, 2014.
Last reviewed November 2017 by EBSCO Medical Review Board Warren A. Bodine, DO, CAQSM
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.