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Aortic insufficiency with mild ankylosing spondylitis in black men
JAMA
|December 8, 1978
Summary
Mild ankylosing spondylitis, even when asymptomatic, can cause aortic insufficiency. This study highlights the association in Black patients, an uncommon demographic for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Cardiology
- Genetics
Background:
- Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease primarily affecting the spine.
- Aortic insufficiency is a serious cardiac condition characterized by the inability of the aortic valve to close properly.
- The association between ankylosing spondylitis and aortic insufficiency is a known extra-articular manifestation.
Observation:
- Two Black male patients presented with aortic insufficiency.
- Subclinical, asymptomatic ankylosing spondylitis was diagnosed in both patients via roentgenograms.
- Both patients tested positive for the HLA-B27 antigen.
Findings:
- This case series demonstrates that even mild, subclinical ankylosing spondylitis can manifest with aortic insufficiency.
- The findings suggest a potential link between ankylosing spondylitis and aortic insufficiency in Black individuals, a population where ankylosing spondylitis is less common.
Implications:
- Clinicians should consider screening for ankylosing spondylitis in Black patients presenting with aortic insufficiency.
- Further research is warranted to understand the prevalence and specific mechanisms of this association in diverse populations.
- Early recognition of subclinical ankylosing spondylitis may allow for timely cardiovascular monitoring and management.