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Published on: October 27, 2023

Cardiovascular involvement of ankylosing spondylitis: report of three cases

Shi-Min Yuan1

  • 1Department of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery, The Chaim Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, Israel. shi_min_yuan@yahoo.com

Vascular
|November 14, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Ankylosing spondylitis can affect the cardiovascular system, particularly the aorta. This study highlights surgical interventions for aortic complications in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Rheumatology
  • Vascular Surgery

Background:

  • Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the axial skeleton.
  • Cardiovascular involvement, especially aortic disease and aortic regurgitation, is a known extra-articular manifestation of AS.
  • Early diagnosis and management of cardiovascular complications are crucial for AS patients.

Observation:

  • Three male patients with diagnosed ankylosing spondylitis underwent surgical treatment for cardiovascular complications between 2005 and the present.
  • These complications included aortic aneurysmal dilation, bicuspid aortic valve, aortic root dilation, and myocardial infarction.
  • Surgical intervention was necessary for these conditions, including isolated bicuspid aortic valve.

Findings:

  • Aortic aneurysmal dilation is a recognized, albeit rare, association with ankylosing spondylitis.
  • Bicuspid aortic valve and coronary artery disease are occasionally observed in AS patients.
  • Impaired aortic elasticity and endothelial dysfunction may contribute to aortic complications in AS.

Implications:

  • This case series underscores the importance of vigilant cardiovascular monitoring in ankylosing spondylitis patients.
  • Understanding the mechanisms linking AS and aortic disease may lead to improved preventative strategies.
  • Multidisciplinary care involving rheumatologists, cardiologists, and surgeons is essential for managing these complex cases.

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