Ankylosing Spondylitis (cont.)
What is in the future for patients with ankylosing
spondylitis?
Ankylosing spondylitis and each of the spondyloarthropathies
are areas of active research. The relationship between infectious
agents and the triggering of chronic inflammation is vigorously
being pursued. Factors that perpetuate "autoimmunity"
are being identified. The characteristics of the gene marker HLA-B27
are being further defined. In fact, there are now known to be
seven different subtypes of HLA-B27.
The impact of the recent discovery of the two additional genes associated with ankylosing spondylitis (described above under "Causes") cannot be overstated. As more about the precise mechanisms these genes
use to influence the immune system is understood, the discovery of a cure will be possible. Moreover, results of ongoing research
will lead to a better understanding and treatment of the entire group
of diseases collectively known as spondyloarthropathies.
- Ankylosing spondylitis belongs to a group of
arthritis conditions which tend to cause chronic inflammation of the spine
(spondyloarthropathies).
- Ankylosing spondylitis affects males two to three times more
commonly than females.
- Ankylosing spondylitis is a cause of back pain in
adolescents and young adults.
- The tendency to develop ankylosing spondylitis is
genetically inherited.
- The HLA-B27 gene can be detected in the blood of most
patients with ankylosing spondylitis.
- Ankylosing spondylitis can also affect the eyes, heart,
lungs, and occasionally the kidneys.
- The optimal treatment of ankylosing spondylitis
involves medications that reduce inflammation or suppress immunity,
physical therapy, and exercise.
For more information about ankylosing spondylitis, please visit the Arthritis Foundation
(http://www.arthritis.org/).
References:
Primer on the Rheumatic Diseases. Springer, edited by John H. Klippel, et al., 2008.
Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology. W B Saunders Co, edited by Shaun Ruddy, et al., 2000.
American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific National Meeting, 2005-8.
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