Is Adfar injection a better treatment option for ankylosing spondylitis?

Question

Hello doctor,

My husband is suffering from ankylosing spondylitis, and he is under treatment since last year. His doctor has now suggested Adfrar 40 injections along with physiotherapy and a belt. The doctor has also suggested halting swimming until further instructions. I am looking for a second opinion before going forward with this expensive treatment. These days he has been complaining of pain in the right leg. As per the doctor, this is due to problems in the spine. I have attached his spine MRI reports along with all current medication details. Please provide suggestions and opinions.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your reports (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity), and his disease does look quite severe. Developing a compression fracture is an indication that the disease activity is high. The reason for stopping exercises would be the fracture itself. The treatment is going fine, so far they have tried Sulfasalazine and Etoshine (Etoricoxib). But when the disease involves the spine, we are left with limited options. And the next step is a biological drug, you can choose either of the three available options. Yes, we need to control the inflammation. The only thing I could not find was the ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate), CRP (C- reactive protein), and CBC (complete blood count). I would have liked to see the inflammation in the blood. I would suggest going for an injection of Zoledronic acid. It is for osteoporosis arising due to immobility of the spine and will help strengthen the spine, preventing further bone loss and fractures. All in all, you are in the right hands. Feel free to contact me for more queries.

Thank you.