Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the pelvis and spine
Inflammatory changes in the area of the sacroiliac joints (ISG) and the spinal column must be visualized much earlier than in X-rays using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI can also provide information on the intensity of inflammation, making the method suitable for assessing the course of the disease and monitoring the success of therapy. However, it is not possible to depict all the regions affected by Bekhterev’s disease with the same quality using an MRI. For this reason, an MRI of the pelvis or the lumbar spine with ISG can be considered for the ISG ́s. If the entire spinal column is to be assessed, an MRI of the spinal column can be performed.
Sonography / Ultrasound
Sonography is a cost-effective method that is free of side effects and is used to record and monitor the course of peripheral joint inflammation and inflammation of the tendon attachments. It can also be carried out as a dynamic examination and side by side comparison. You can find general information on this topic at: Sonography
Summary
Bekhterev’s disease is an inflammatory systemic disease of unknown cause from the group of spondylarthropathies. The predominant sites of manifestation are the sacroiliac joints (ISG joints), the transition from the thoracic spine to the lumbar spine and, in the case of peripheral joint involvement, the hip joint and knee joint. Inflammation of the tendon insertions and involvement of the eye (iridocyclitis) are also frequently found.
Typically, there is persistent pain and increasing restriction of movement. The diagnosis is made clinically (by examination of the patient) and radiologically (by X-rays, MRI; CT, scintigraphy etc.). Laboratory values can confirm the diagnosis with a positive HLA-B27 or increased inflammation values.
In order to contain the inflammatory process and the progressive stiffening or joint destruction, forced therapy must be initiated early on. The basis is physiotherapy / physiotherapy and drug therapy. In case of failure of conservative therapy measures, operative therapy measures are used.
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