A 19-year-old male presented to his family physician with a history of lower back pain and stiffness in the past 2 months. He reported having intermittent pain, which worsened in the morning.
The patient further noticed that he was unable to perform activities that required flexibility in the back (ex., stooping). Medical History Low-grade fever, malaise, and anorexia for several months Unintended weight loss of 10 lb (4.5 kg) No history of any masses on his testicles No history of rash or any chronic medical conditions Intake of multivitamins once a day Physical examination Vitals: Blood pressure: 125/67 mm Hg; Heart rate: 60 beats/min; Respiratory rate: 8 breaths/min; Temperature: 98°F Cardiovascular and respiratory findings: Normal Visual examination: No photophobia, eye redness, or decreased visual acuity Back examination: Flexion of the lumbar spine was found to be clearly…
