Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Rheumatology and inflammatory pain

Update on spondyloarthritis

Mark Reed, Lionel Schachna
Abstract
Differentiating spondyloarthritides from more common mechanical back disorders is the major challenge in general practice.
Key Points
  • Spondyloarthritis occurs in 2 to 3% of the population and can cause significant long term disability.
  • Early diagnosis of spondyloarthritis is critical in the era of effective biological therapies.
  • A detailed but focused history is essential in identifying early spondyloarthritis, when examination findings and radiographs may be normal.
  • Traditional disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are less effective in spondyloarthritis than in rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors have revolutionised the management of spondyloarthritis.
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