Spondyloarthropathies

Spondyloarthropathies are a group of inflammatory syndromes that includes ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease-associated arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and undifferentiated spondyloarthropathy. Each subtype can present with axial and peripheral symptoms. These syndromes share genetic predisposition and clinical findings, including inflammatory back pain, peripheral arthritis, dactylitis, and enthesitis. Additional clinical features include ocular disease, mucocutaneous lesions, and inflammatory bowel disease. Diagnosis is made primarily through history and physical examination findings, but radiography and testing for the HLA-B27 gene are also performed. Treatment depends on the specific subtype and typically involves a multimodal approach, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, and biologic therapy (eg, tumor necrosis factor inhibitors). The goal of the family physician is to recognize early signs and symptoms and initiate appropriate treatment to optimize quality of life and minimize disease progression.