Spondyloarthritis Research and Treatment Network (SPARTAN) Clinical and Imaging Year in Review 2024

Diagnostic delay remains a critical challenge in axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). This review highlights key clinical and imaging research from 2024 that addresses this persistent issue, with a focus on the evolving roles of MRI, artificial intelligence (AI), and updated Canadian management recommendations.

Multiple studies published in 2024 emphasized the continued problem of diagnostic delay in axSpA. Studies support the continued use of sacroiliac joint MRI as a central diagnostic tool for axSpA, particularly in patients with chronic back pain and associated conditions like uveitis, psoriasis (PsO), or inflammatory bowel disease. AI-based tools for interpreting sacroiliac joint MRIs demonstrated moderate agreement with expert assessments, offering a potential solution to variability and limited access to expert musculoskeletal radiology. These innovations may support earlier diagnosis and reduce misclassification. Innovative models of care, including patient-initiated telemedicine visits, reduced in-person visit frequency without compromising clinical outcomes in patients with stable axSpA. Updated Canadian treatment guidelines introduced more robust data on Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors and offered stronger support for tapering biologics in patients with sustained low disease activity or remission, while advising against abrupt discontinuation. This clinical and imaging year in review covers challenges and innovations in axSpA, emphasizing the need for early access to care and the development of tools to support prompt diagnosis and sustained continuity of care.