Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Human Brucellar Spondylodiscitis
Published on: May 23, 2021
Axial skeletal changes in paralysed patients may mimic ankylosing spondylitis
D N Fiske1, C H Bush, N L Edwards
1Department of Medicine, University of Florida College of Medicine, Gainesville, USA.
Patients with paralysis can develop bone changes mimicking ankylosing spondylitis. This case highlights the importance of distinguishing immobilization spondyloarthropathy from the inflammatory condition in paralyzed individuals.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Neurology
- Radiology
Background:
- Paralysis can lead to radiographic changes in the axial skeleton and sacroiliac joints.
- These changes can mimic those of ankylosing spondylitis, causing diagnostic confusion.
- Differentiating immobilization spondyloarthropathy from ankylosing spondylitis is crucial for proper patient management.
Observation:
- A patient with paralysis due to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) presented with back pain.
- Radiographic evaluation revealed apparent sacroiliac joint fusion and a 'bamboo spine' appearance.
- These findings initially led to a misdiagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis.
Findings:
- The study presents serial radiographs illustrating the bony changes in the patient.
- It reviews literature on axial skeletal abnormalities associated with paralysis.
- Subtle radiographic distinctions between immobilization spondyloarthropathy and ankylosing spondylitis are discussed.
Implications:
- Accurate diagnosis is essential to avoid misclassification and inappropriate treatment for patients with paralysis.
- Understanding immobilization spondyloarthropathy is key for neurologists and rheumatologists managing patients with limited mobility.
- Radiologists must be aware of these specific skeletal changes in paralyzed patients to ensure correct diagnosis.
More Related Videos
04:19Minimally Invasive Treatment for Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture Using Sagittal Alignment Screws and A Trauma Reduction Device
Published on: November 8, 2024
07:01Clinical Efficacy of Ultrasound-Assisted Scoliosis-Specific Exercise in Mild-Grade Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis
Published on: December 2, 2025
Related Concept Videos
Overview of the Axial Skeleton
The axial skeleton of the adult...
Changes in the Appendicular Skeleton with Age
Initially, the limb buds consist of a core of mesenchyme covered by a layer of ectoderm. The ectoderm at the end of the limb bud thickens to form a narrow crest called the apical ectodermal ridge. This ridge stimulates the underlying...
Disorders of the Skeletal Muscle
Musculoskeletal disorders
Musculoskeletal disorders involve injuries and conditions affecting the skeletal muscles and associated connective tissues. These disorders can arise from acute biomechanical stresses or chronic overuse and can occur across different age groups. Common injuries include sprains, fractures, and muscular strains, often resulting from...
Multiple Sclerosis l: Introduction
Alterations in Muscle Tone ll
Alterations in Muscle Tone lll