Spondyloarthritis

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) represents a collection of prevalent inflammatory rheumatic disorders characterized by arthritis affecting the spine or peripheral joints. They often present with additional features like enthesitis, dactylitis, and potential extra-articular symptoms such as uveitis and skin rashes. While these conditions within the SpA group share a common genetic predisposition such the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) B27 gene, the strength of this association varies significantly among different SpA subtypes and diverse ethnic populations. Additionally, environmental factors play a crucial role in triggering these diseases in genetically susceptible individuals. Radiographically, sacroiliitis is a distinctive hallmark of this group of disorders and can be instrumental in making a diagnosis when present. Over the years, various diagnostic and classification criteria have been developed. The Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society (ASAS) international working group has developed criteria that enable the identification of SpA before structural changes become evident in the spine. Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) changes have been incorporated into the new classification criteria for early axial SpA and are now recognized as a major diagnostic tool. Until recently, there were no disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs who inhibit disease progression. However, in the past decade, extensive research has focused on tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha blocking agents and various other biologics, which have become the primary mode of therapy to offer patients an effective treatment option.