Spondylitis, which is also known as ankylosing spondylitis, is an arthritic condition that directly affects the spine. It causes chronic pain and general discomfort in the upper and lower back. Patients also often experience a general feeling of stiffness in the back and may lose some mobility over time. Ankylosing spondylitis always starts with the spine, but over time, it can spread to different organ systems throughout the body, leading to a number of different symptoms.
As ankylosing spondylitis progresses, symptoms may gradually worsen. At first, patients will experience pain and stiffness, especially in the lower spine near the buttocks. Eventually, the pain may begin to spread to the upper areas of the spine and other joints in the body, such as the hips. As the disease progresses, patients may find that their spine is inflexible and they may begin to lose weight or suffer from chronic fatigue.
Like other forms of arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disorder. This inflammation can cause the body's immune system to react as if there had been some kind of injury, and new bone can begin to grow in the spine. This bone can eventually lead to a general immobilization of the spine. This condition is called spinal fusion, and it is not very common, but it is a real possibility if the disorder is not treated.
Most scientists agree that ankylosing spondylitis is genetically inherited. There is a particular gene called HLA-B27 that has been directly associated with the disorder. Although there is definitely a correlation between the gene and the disease, many people have the gene and never develop the condition, so some scientists suspect that other factors are involved as well.
In addition to the genetic connection, there are a few other things that increase a person's risk. Men are more likely to get the disease than women, especially when they are in their 20s and 30s. Native Americans also have a slightly higher chance of developing ankylosing spondylitis compared to other races.
Ankylosing spondylitis cannot be cured, but there are some treatments available that can help reduce discomfort and decrease the chance of serious complications. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be helpful in treating pain and reducing inflammation. As symptoms progress, more serious medications may be prescribed. Some doctors also recommend physical therapy to help maintain basic mobility in the spine. In some cases, doctors may recommend surgery, but this is not very common.