Spinal fractures complicating ankylosing spondylitis

Individuals with ankylosing spondylitis (AS) are at increased risk for developing fractures of the spine, especially in the cervical region. This tendency is related to the ossification of spinal ligaments and osteopenic changes in the spinal vertebrae. We reviewed our clinical experience of SCI occurring due to AS, and the literature regarding the natural history of these fractures. A significant number of individuals are not aware of their increased risk for spinal fracture and sustain spinal fractures without realizing it. Difficulties in diagnosis and inappropriate management of spinal fractures in these individuals have often resulted in severe neurologic sequelae and a mortality rate approximately twice that observed with similar fractures in a normal spine. The need for better patient education emphasizing the significance of even minor trauma, and a thorough evaluation of AS patients with a history of trauma is stressed.