Alternative Names
Rheumatoid spondylitis; Spondylitis; Spondylarthropathy; Seronegative bundle arthropathy
Definition of Ankylosing spondylitis
Ankylosing spondylitis is a long-term disease that causes inflammation of the joints between the spinal bones, and the joints between the spine and pelvis. It eventually causes the affected spinal bones to join together.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
The cause of ankylosing spondylitis is unknown, but genes seem to play a role.
Symptoms
The disease starts with low back pain that comes and goes.
Signs and tests
Tests may include:
Treatment
Your doctor may prescribe nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce inflammation and pain.
Expectations (prognosis)
The course of the disease is unpredictable. Symptoms may come and go at any time. Most people are able to function unless the hips are severely involved.
Review
Mark James Borigini, MD, Rheumatologist in the Washington, DC Metro area. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc. – 5/13/2010
