Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is also called rheumatoid spondylitis or Marie-Strumpell disease. It is a rheumatic inflammatory condition that attacks the vertebae and spinal facet joints. It can also affect other joints and organs. Ankylosing Spondylitis is a kind of arthritis that is generally diagnosed and treated by a rheumatologist (arthritis doctor). It is more prevalent in men than women by 3 to 1. Ankylosing Spondylitis can affect patients of all ages and if untreated may become a serious health issue.

What is Ankylosing Spondylitis?
Ankylosis means a fusion or joining of joint structures. Spondylitis refers to inflammation of the vertebrae and/or spinal structures. The name refers to a chronic inflammatory condition of the spine and sacroiliac joints, that with time results in the fusion of these structures. If not treated appropriately Ankylosing Spondylitis can result in widespread restriction of spinal motion causing substantial impairment.

The lower spinal region is the prime target for most cases of Ankylosing Spondylitis. Nevertheless, it may strike anywhere in the spine, neck. Ankylosing Spondylitis can also impact the heart, lungs, eyes or kidneys. This is especially true in the female patient population.

Causes of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Ankylosing Spondylitis is heredity. People inherit the HLA-B27 gene which is believed to be the prime cause of this condition. Over 90% of AS patients exhibit an inherited predisposition for the disease, testing positive for the HLA-B27 gene. However the majority of people with the gene will not develop the disease. Research is currently being conducted to discover additional factors that lead to the disease.

Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Back pain, fatigue and spinal stiffness are the primary symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis. Frequently, the symptoms come on insidiously (slowly) and gradually progress in their intensity. Advanced Ankylosing Spondylitis can result in a forward curve in the thoracic spine known as thoracic kyphosis. This curve, if severe can impact the function of the lungs leaving the patient susceptible to breathing problems. As the disease progresses, it’s common for the vertebral bodies and facet joints to fuse into one solid piece of bone. This is referred to a bamboo spine due to its resemblance to a bamboo stalk when seen on x-ray. A total fusion of the spine leaves the patient very inflexible and vulnerable to vertebral fracture if they fall or are injured.
Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis usually includes physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications. This treatment is designed to reduce pain and the chronic inflammation around the vertebrae, increase flexibility in the hips and spine, strengthen core muscles and increase cardiovascular capacity.

The causes and prevention of Ankylosing Spondylitis are still largely unknown. When appropriately treated with anti-inflammatory medications and physical therapy most patients are able to lead relatively normal lives. The condition usually progresses for about ten years and then the stops. If the anti-inflammatories are able to control the disease during the active phase and the patient is compliant with physical therapy, the prognosis is good for recovery with minimal disability. If you have been diagnosed with this condition you should find a rheumatologist who is well versed in the latest Ankylosing Spondylitis research and treatment.