How to confirm ankylosing spondylitis with tests?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 40 years old and have been experiencing a lot of back pain and stiffness. I am worried it might be something like ankylosing spondylitis. What are the main early signs and symptoms of AS in people around my age, and how do you even confirm a diagnosis?

I would like to know if there is a test or scan that can help figure this out sooner rather than later, especially if it means protecting my back from getting worse. I just want to be sure, that I am not missing anything important if this is what is causing the pain.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understand your concern.

Ankylosing spondylitis, also known as axial spondyloarthritis, is an inflammatory disease that, over time, can cause some of the bones in the spine, called vertebrae, to fuse. This fusing makes the spine less flexible and can result in a hunched posture. If ribs are affected, it can be difficult to breathe deeply.

As ankylosing spondylitis worsens, new bone forms as part of the body's attempt to heal. The new bone gradually bridges the gaps between vertebrae and eventually fuses sections of vertebrae. Fused vertebrae can flatten the natural curves of the spine, which causes an inflexible, hunched posture.

When the condition is found on X-ray, it is called ankylosing spondylitis, also known as axial spondyloarthritis. When the condition cannot be seen on X-ray but is found based on symptoms, blood tests, and other imaging tests, it is called non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis.

Symptoms typically begin in early adulthood. Inflammation also can occur in other parts of the body most commonly, the eyes. There is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, but treatments can lessen symptoms and possibly slow the progression of the disease.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.