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Spondylitis erosiva: report on 9 patients
Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases
|June 1, 1982
Summary
Early vertebral erosions may be the first sign of ankylosing spondylitis. This study observed spinal changes and associated symptoms in nine patients, with seven diagnosed with the condition.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Orthopedics
- Radiology
Background:
- Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for managing disease progression and preventing long-term disability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the initial radiographic signs of ankylosing spondylitis.
- To correlate clinical symptoms with early spinal changes in patients suspected of having AS.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of nine patients presenting with spinal pain and stiffness.
- Review of initial and follow-up spinal X-rays to identify characteristic lesions.
- Assessment of clinical symptoms including pain, morning stiffness, and spinal mobility.
- HLA-B27 antigen testing in all patients.
Main Results:
- Seven of nine patients were diagnosed with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Initial X-rays revealed vertebral body sclerosis and erosions in affected patients.
- Later disease stages showed squaring of vertebrae, sacroiliitis, and apophyseal joint arthritis.
- HLA-B27 antigen was present in 78% (7/9) of the patients.
Conclusions:
- Erosive lesions in vertebral bodies may represent the earliest detectable radiographic manifestation of ankylosing spondylitis.
- These findings highlight the importance of early radiographic assessment in patients with suggestive symptoms.
- The presence of HLA-B27 supports the diagnosis in clinically suspected cases.