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Published on: February 4, 2021
Aortic involvement in ankylosing spondylitis
C Palazzi1, S D' Angelo, E Lubrano
1Department of Internal Medicine, Villa Pini Clinic, Chieti, Italy.
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|October 24, 2008
Summary
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) patients frequently develop cardiovascular issues, primarily aortitis affecting the aorta and valves. Early recognition and treatment of these cardiac manifestations are crucial for managing AS progression.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Cardiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease.
- Cardiovascular manifestations are a significant concern in AS patients.
- Aortitis is the most common cardiac complication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize the cardiovascular manifestations in ankylosing spondylitis.
- To highlight the importance of early diagnosis and management of cardiac involvement in AS.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of cardiovascular complications in AS.
- Analysis of clinical presentations and pathological findings.
- Discussion of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Main Results:
- Aortitis, particularly of the aortic root and ascending aorta, is the primary manifestation, leading to valvular insufficiency.
- Conduction abnormalities due to subaortic fibrosis are the second most common cardiac issue.
- Coronary artery and other aortic segment involvement are less frequent.
Conclusions:
- Cardiovascular involvement, especially aortitis, is a serious complication of AS.
- Prompt recognition and management by rheumatologists are essential for improving patient outcomes.
- Continuous monitoring for cardiac manifestations is recommended throughout the disease course.
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