Most people haven’t heard of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). But it’s estimated that about 1 in 20 people who experience back pain have an axSpA diagnosis, even if they don’t know it. Keep reading to learn more about how to tame axSpA, or Sign up for more information about tools and resources, including a treatment option.
AxSpA is an inflammatory arthritis of the spine that is made up of 2 underdiagnosed conditions: non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr‑axSpA) and ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
Damage may not appear
on an X-ray, but may
appear on an MRI
nr-axSpA patients are
more likely to be female
(50–60%)
Up to 50% of nr-axSpA
cases may be at risk of
progression to AS
Damage will appear on
X-rays
AS patients are more likely
to be male
Joint damage and spinal
fusion
Their names are a mouthful, so let’s break it down.
may not appear on imaging techniques, like X-rays
a type of arthritis that attacks the spine
the abnormal stiffening and immobility of a joint
due to fusion of the bones
the inflammation of the spine or vertebrae
The symptoms of axSpA and nr-axSpA may first appear in the lower back, but they often affect other parts of the body as the disease progresses.
People may live with axSpA for years without knowing since it is difficult to diagnose. It may be confused with other conditions, like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia, because the symptoms can be similar. To make a diagnosis, a rheumatologist will look at a patient’s history and may perform a variety of tests including physical exams, imaging tests, and lab tests.
At your appointment, a rheumatologist will:
Check for signs of inflammation, pain, and tenderness throughout the body
Test your range of motion by asking you to perform certain movements or physical tasks
A family history of other autoimmune conditions may also provide clues. Tell your doctor if any close relatives have been diagnosed with:
Acute anterior uveitis
AS or nr-axSpA
Inflammatory bowel
disease
Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriasis
Reactive arthritis
Spondyloarthritis
Here are types of imaging tests that can reveal signs of joint damage or inflammation:
X-rays
MRIs
CT scans
Ultrasounds
Remember, nr-axSpA may not appear on an X-ray.
Blood tests are an important tool. A rheumatologist may look for 2 proteins to help support an axSpA diagnosis:
HLA-B27
Although its exact cause is unknown, a specific protein called HLA-B27 is thought to play an important role in axSpA. But it is possible to have axSpA and not test positive for the HLA-B27 protein.
C-reactive protein (CRP)
A C-reactive protein test measures the level of CRP in your blood. High levels of CRP may be a sign of inflammation or other disorders.
The pain was excruciating. I didn't want to go out anymore even if it was just to dinner. I needed to see a rheumatologist.
Matt
Asking questions and undergoing tests can help clear the road towards a diagnosis. Hear how Jill, Matt, and Sharonda eventually found the answers they were looking for.
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