Ankylosing spondylitis (Bechterew's disease/Marie-Strümpel's disease) is a chronic inflammatory condition characterized by ankylosis mainly at the level of the spine and the sacroiliac joint. Still, peripheral joints are also involved in 20% of cases. It primarily affects men (3:1) and is associated with HLA-B27 positive and rheumatoid factor harmful. It causes inflammation in the enthesis of vertebrae or sacroiliac joints, which, over time, can lead to the fusion of these bones, resulting in stiffness and loss of mobility. Common manifestations of the disease include chronic back pain, particularly in the morning, fatigue, stiffness, and, in some cases, involvement of peripheral joints such as the hips or shoulders. [1] [2]
The diagnosis is supported by clinical, laboratory, and imaging findings.
From an imaging perspective, AS presents with typical changes and signs that can be monitored via X-ray, CT, and MRI, playing a crucial role in diagnosis, monitoring, and assessing potential complications. [2]