Musculoskeletal Health - Ankylosing Spondylitis Flashcards
(19 cards)
What is ankylosing spondylitis (AS)?
A type of chronic inflammatory arthritis primarily affecting the spine and sacroiliac joints (SIJs).
What is axial spondyloarthritis?
An umbrella term including AS and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (no X-ray changes).
At what age does AS commonly begin?
Between 20 and 30 years of age.
What is the male-to-female ratio in AS?
Approximately 3:1.
What are key symptoms of AS?
Chronic back pain, morning stiffness >30 mins, SIJ pain, enthesitis, fatigue, and systemic symptoms.
What extra-articular manifestations are associated with AS?
Uveitis (~25%), psoriasis (~10%), IBD (~6.5%).
What is the significance of HLA-B27 in AS?
Over 90% of AS patients carry HLA-B27; linked to molecular mimicry and immune dysregulation.
Which genes other than HLA-B27 are linked to AS?
IL-23R SNPs and ERAP1/2 — affecting antigen presentation and Th17 signalling.
What microbial links are associated with AS?
Klebsiella pneumoniae, P. gingivalis, Salmonella, Shigella, Chlamydia, Campylobacter.
How is GI inflammation linked to AS?
~70% of AS patients have gut mucosal inflammation; associated with increased IBD prevalence.
What patterns of gut dysbiosis are seen in AS?
↓ Faecalibacterium prausnitzii, ↑ E. coli; impaired barrier with high zonulin and serum LPS.
What dietary interventions benefit AS?
CNM Naturopathic Diet; dairy-free; low-starch diets (reduce Klebsiella growth and inflammation).
How does fasting benefit AS?
Reduces pain and stiffness by improving GIT health and modulating immune responses.
What is the role of vitamin D in AS?
Optimises Treg activity, suppresses Th17 and Th1 responses; high levels reduce AS risk.
How does resveratrol support AS?
Reduces Th17 cells, gut inflammation, and inhibits NF-kB and COX-2.
What is the benefit of omega-3 in AS?
High-dose EPA reduces disease activity and inflammation.
Which herbs are used in AS?
Turmeric, ginger, Boswellia, Devil’s Claw — all anti-inflammatory.
What physical therapies are beneficial in AS?
Manual therapy, daily spinal/rib mobility stretching (e.g., Pilates), and breathing exercises.
What hydrotherapies are used in AS?
Contrast showers and Epsom salt baths (500g–1kg) to reduce pain and stiffness.
