Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine. It can cause pain and stiffness in the spine and other parts of the body. The condition is estimated to affect up to 1 in 200 people in the United States, with the majority of cases occurring in men.
What are the Chances of Getting Ankylosing Spondylitis?
The exact cause of ankylosing spondylitis is not known, but it is thought to be related to genetic factors. People with a family history of AS are at an increased risk of developing the condition. Other factors such as age, gender, and ethnicity may also increase the risk of developing AS.
The overall lifetime risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis is estimated to be between 0.1% and 0.2%. However, the risk is higher for some groups. For example, the risk is estimated to be around 2.6% in people with a family history of the condition and 0.5% in people of Caucasian ancestry.
Diagnosing Ankylosing Spondylitis
The diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis is based on a combination of factors, including a physical examination, laboratory tests, imaging studies, and a personal and family history. A doctor may also use a tool called the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index (BASDAI) to assess the severity of the disease.
Treatment of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Treatment of ankylosing spondylitis typically involves a combination of medications and lifestyle changes. Medications may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), and biologic agents. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, stretching, and good posture can also help manage symptoms and reduce disability. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to correct spinal deformities caused by the condition.