• Ankylosing spondylitis is an autoimmune, inflammatory condition that mainly affects the spine, that is the neck and back, and pelvis.
• The immune system is designed to identify and fight off infections to keep you healthy. In an autoimmune disease, the immune system starts attacking your own healthy tissues.

What happens in ankylosing spondylitis?

In people with ankylosing spondylitis, inflammation leads to symptoms and long-term inflammation can lead to fusing of the bones in the spine. Medicines can help with this.

What causes ankylosing spondylitis?

The cause of ankylosing spondylitis is unknown, but genes are thought to play a part. In fact, most people with ankylosing spondylitis have a gene called HLA-B27 (but of note, most people with this gene do not have ankylosing spondylitis).

What are the symptoms ?

• The most common symptoms are pain and stiffness in the neck, back, and/or buttocks, especially in the morning. Exercise may relieve the symptoms.
• Less commonly you can have more general symptoms like tiredness.

Please contact your doctor if your symptoms change.

How is it diagnosed?

A rheumatologist will diagnose and treat ankylosing spondylitis.




It can be difficult and take time to diagnose ankylosing spondylitis. Your doctor will make a diagnosis based on your symptoms and some tests, which can include blood tests and x-rays.

How is it treated?

• While there is no cure for ankylosing spondylitis, there are a variety of medicines available to help with the symptoms and reduce damage to the joints, especially if started early. Treatment aims to reduce pain, and complications. Your rheumatologist will tailor your treatment to your specific symptoms.
• Exercise is important for general wellbeing, but extra important in ankylosing spondylitis. Exercise can help pain and keep your spine mobile.

Please contact your doctor for further information about your condition and treatment.