Management of ankylosing spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is the prototype of a group of diseases probably best labelled collectively as the seronegative spondyloarthropathies. Other conditions, such as psoriatic arthritis, enteropathic arthritis and Reiter's syndrome, share common features and all lie within this group. Precise subgroup diagnosis is sometimes difficult because of the wide spectrum of clinical presentation, but effective management is nevertheless usually possible. Recognition of the pattern of joint involvement, as well as characteristic extraarticular features, is essential in order to initiate appropriate treatment aimed at preserving function and preventing permanent damage.