Cardiovascular Disease in Spondyloarthritides

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology and Cardiology
• Systemic Inflammatory Diseases

Background:

• Spondyloarthropathies, including ankylosing spondylitis (AS) and psoriatic arthritis (PsA), are chronic inflammatory joint diseases.
• Accumulating evidence indicates an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and CVD mortality in patients with AS and PsA.
• Systemic inflammation, beyond traditional risk factors, is implicated as a key mediator of this increased cardiovascular risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the acknowledged excess cardiovascular risk in patients with spondyloarthropathies.
• To discuss the potential cardiovascular benefits of new anti-rheumatic treatments and treat-to-target strategies.
• To emphasize the need for increased awareness and improved risk assessment tools for cardiovascular health in these patients.

Main Methods:

• Review of accumulating evidence on cardiovascular risk in spondyloarthropathies.
• Discussion of the role of systemic inflammation in mediating cardiovascular risk.
• Consideration of the impact of current and future anti-rheumatic treatments on cardiovascular outcomes.

Main Results:

• Patients with AS and PsA exhibit an increased risk for cardiovascular disease and death.
• Systemic inflammation is a significant factor contributing to this excess cardiovascular risk.
• Emerging anti-rheumatic therapies may offer cardiovascular benefits, though further data are required.

Conclusions:

• There is a recognized need to address the heightened cardiovascular risk in patients with spondyloarthropathies.
• Enhanced awareness among patients and healthcare providers, alongside better risk stratification tools, is crucial.
• Integrated management addressing both musculoskeletal and cardiovascular aspects is essential for optimal patient care.