Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 24, 2025
Preliminary Study on Acupuncture Combined with Grain-sized Moxibustion for Treating Rheumatoid Arthritis with Finger Joint Pain
Published on: May 16, 2025
Is axial magnetic resonance imaging useful in early juvenile spondyloarthritis-preliminary report
Ana Tripalo Batoš1,2, Kristina Potočki3,4, Matija Žutelija Fattorini5,6
1Department of Paediatric Radiology, Children's Hospital Zagreb, Klaićeva 16, Zagreb, Croatia.
Introduction/Objectives:
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recommended for evaluation of changes in juvenile spondyloarthropathies (JSpA). To our knowledge, there is no previous prospective study analysing early changes on axial MRI. The objective is to investigate incidence of reparable changes on axial MRI in patients with established JSpA, lasting for less than 6 months.
Materials And Methods:
The pilot study included 27 patients with confirmed diagnosis of JSpA examined within 2 years. Prior to imaging, basic demographic and laboratory data and HLA-B27 were collected. Patients filled out a visual analogue scale for pain and a childhood health assessment questionnaire. A paediatric rheumatologist and a paediatric physiatrist examined patients and measured indices of flexion, extension and sagittal flexibility. Contrast-enhanced axial MRI examination and cervical x-ray were performed. Three experienced paediatric radiologists independently reviewed x-ray and MRI images of all patients.
Results:
There was no significant correlation between early changes detected on MRI and other parameters. The study revealed early changes of the cervical spine to be the most common finding. More patients had positive cervical MRI than positive sacroiliac joint (SIJ) MRI. Cervical x-ray and MRI were equally useful for diagnosis regardless of other parameters.
Conclusion:
Study showed new information on axial involvement, striking cervical spine as the most involved part. The biggest study limitation is the small number of patients. Establishing early JSpA diagnosis is of utmost importance, especially in the light of novel therapy introduced in every day practice. It seems that cervical spine involvement is more represented than previously described in literature, especially in comparison with SIJ. Key Points • Contrast-enhanced MRI is considered the gold standard for detection early changes in JSpA. • Standardization of diagnostic criteria and better classification of changes using the unique scoring system for children are necessary. • It seems that cervical spine involvement is more represented than previously described in the literature, especially in comparison with SIJ involvement.
Insights
Early magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in juvenile spondyloarthropathies (JSpA) shows cervical spine changes are most common. This finding is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment of JSpA, especially with new therapies available.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Rheumatology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Spinal Disorders
Background:
- Juvenile spondyloarthropathies (JSpA) require early detection for effective management.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a key tool for evaluating JSpA.
- Prospective studies on early axial MRI changes in JSpA are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence of early, reparable changes on axial MRI in patients with established JSpA.
- To analyze early axial MRI findings in JSpA patients with symptom duration less than six months.
Main Methods:
- A pilot study included 27 patients with confirmed JSpA.
- Data collected included demographics, laboratory results, HLA-B27 status, pain scores, and functional questionnaires.
- Contrast-enhanced axial MRI and cervical X-ray were performed, with independent review by three pediatric radiologists.
Main Results:
- Early cervical spine changes were the most frequent MRI finding in JSpA patients.
- Cervical spine MRI showed positive findings in more patients than sacroiliac joint (SIJ) MRI.
- No significant correlation was found between early MRI changes and other clinical or laboratory parameters.
Conclusions:
- The cervical spine appears to be more frequently involved in early JSpA than previously reported, surpassing sacroiliac joint involvement.
- Contrast-enhanced MRI is essential for detecting early JSpA changes.
- Standardized diagnostic criteria and scoring systems are needed for pediatric JSpA imaging.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Magnetic Resonance Imaging
01:27Imaging Studies IV: Magnetic Resonance Imaging