Ankylosing Spondylitis Update

MedlinePlus sent this bulletin at 04/14/2016 01:10 PM EDT

New on the MedlinePlus Ankylosing Spondylitis page:
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Genetics Home Reference: ankylosing spondylitis

04/13/2016 02:39 PM EDT

Source: National Library of Medicine - NIH

ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a form of ongoing joint inflammation (chronic inflammatory arthritis) that primarily affects the. This condition is characterized by back pain and stiffness that typically appear in adolescence or early adulthood. Over time, back movement gradually becomes limited as the bones of the spine (vertebrae) fuse together. This progressive bony fusion is called ankylosis.

The earliest symptoms of ankylosing spondylitis result from inflammation of the joints between the pelvic bones (the ilia) and the base of the spine (the sacrum). These joints are called sacroiliac joints, and inflammation of these joints is known as sacroiliitis. The inflammation gradually spreads to the joints between the vertebrae, causing a condition called spondylitis. Ankylosing spondylitis can involve other joints as well, including the shoulders, hips, and, less often, the knees. As the disease progresses, it can affect the joints between the spine and ribs, restricting movement of the chest and making it difficult to breathe deeply. People with advanced disease are also more prone to fractures of the vertebrae.

Ankylosing spondylitis affects the eyes in up to 40 percent of cases, leading to episodes of eye inflammation called acute iritis. Acute iritis causes eye pain and increased sensitivity to light (photophobia). Rarely, ankylosing spondylitis can also cause serious complications involving the heart, lungs, and nervous system.

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ankylosing spondylitis - Genetics Home Reference

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The primary NIH organization for research on Ankylosing Spondylitisis the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases

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Summary

Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis of the spine. It causes inflammation between your vertebrae, which are the bones that make up your spine, and in the joints between your spine and pelvis. In some people, it can affect other joints.

AS is more common and more severe in men. It often runs in families. The cause is unknown, but it is likely that both genes and factors in the environment play a role.

Early symptoms of AS include back pain and stiffness. These problems often start in late adolescence or early adulthood. Over time, AS can fuse your vertebrae together, limiting movement. Some people have symptoms that come and go. Others have severe, ongoing pain.

A diagnosis of AS is based on your medical history and a physical examination. You may also have imaging or blood tests.

AS has no cure, but medicines can relieve symptoms and may keep the disease from getting worse. Eating a healthy diet, not smoking, and exercising can also help. In rare cases, you may need surgery to straighten the spine.

NIH: National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Disease

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Ankylosing Spondylitis (Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research)
Ankylosing Spondylitis (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases)
What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis? (National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases)