Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic, inflammatory disease affecting the spine. It is characterized by progressive spinal stiffness and chronic back pain. Around 80% of patients develop the symptoms of AS before 30 years of age. The etiology of AS is usually idiopathic; however, studies suggest a correlation between the prevalence of human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 and AS in the same given population.
The management of AS should focus on maintaining axial spine motion, functional stability, relieving pain and stiffness, and preventing spinal complications. Take this short quiz to test your knowledge of ankylosing spondylitis. Source: StatPearls
