Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Less Common Form of Arthritis
by Jennifer Bunn, RN
Many people are well aware of arthritis and its symptoms, but may be less well informed about ankylosing spondylitis, a condition that causes inflammation in the joints of the spine and pelvis. The condition causes considerable pain and can lead to deformity. Ankylosing spondylitis can also cause inflammation in other parts of the body, including the eyes and intestines.
Ankylosing spondylitis often affects younger people, with onset of disease generally occurring from the late teens to 40 years of age; more males are affected than females. Heredity plays a role, with most affected individuals having the HLA-B27 gene, which increases susceptibility to the condition. Symptoms include:
- Back pain and stiffness, often worse upon arising
- Fatigue, weight loss, lack of appetite
- Flares, where the disease becomes worse and then subsides somewhat
- Pain in other joints, such as the knees, hips and shoulders
- Eye inflammation
- Breathing problems related to stiffness in the joints between the ribs and spine
- Progressive deformity of the spine
Diagnosis is made by history, physical examination, imaging studies, and blood tests to detect inflammation. There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis. Treatment is geared towards reducing inflammation, controlling pain and maintaining mobility.
Source: Ankylosing Spondylitis
