What is non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 57-year-old male. I have been having inflammation, pain, and stiffness in the spine and pelvic joints for the past month. On consulting the doctor, I learned that I have non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis. I was not able to see any changes in the X-rays taken of the spine and pelvic joints.

What is this condition?
Can I know the possible causative factors of this non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis?
What are the other changes and symptoms that can be noticed?
How can this condition be diagnosed without X-rays?
What are the possible treatment options available for treating this condition?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can 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.

Axial spondyloarthritis has two types. 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, and take care.

Regards.