Imaging update in spondyloarthropathy

Abstract

Although our understanding of axial spondyloarthropathy (axSpA) has increased recently, there has not been a concurrent improvement in patient diagnosis with delays contributing to patient morbidity. Imaging findings of axSpA can be subtle and may be dismissed often due to lack of understanding by reporters and importantly clinicians who do not suspect the disease. Recognition of the importance of imaging has led to the inclusion of MRI as part of the diagnostic criteria for axSpA. With this in mind, a number of advancements have been made in an attempt to increase our diagnostic accuracy on imaging. This article will give an overview of these techniques as well as a recap of the imaging features of axSpA.

Vertebral Related Diseases in Healthcare: The Role of Pain Management and Rehabilitation

“…Spondyloarthropathies (SpAs) comprise a multifactorial and heterogeneous cluster of chronic immuno-inflammatory rheumatic disorders primarily impacting the axial skeleton, but also contributing with peripheral manifestations, as well as systemic impairment (e.g., eye, heart, gut), with considerable quality of life consequences on a significant proportion of young adults causing medical, social, and economic impacts [ 23 , 24 ]. The prominent feature of SpAs is positive familial history and presence of HLA-B27 in most patients, which suggests genetic predisposing factors in disease pathogenesis.…”

“…Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS), being the most prevalent and severe form of SpAs, is generally characterized by inflammatory low back pain accompanied by radiological findings of sacroiliitis [ 25 ]. Despite all radiological and laboratory advancements, the complicated manifestations of AS urges for multi-factorial diagnostic criteria evolved during recent years for efficient detection and follow-up of the patients [ 24 ]. According to the inflammatory base of SpAs, various anti-inflammatory medications have been used for treating the patients ranging from nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, including synthetic and biologic agents [ 26 , 27 , 28 ].…”