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Spondyloarthropathy is a term that describes a group of inflammatory joint diseases that affect different joints in the body, especially the spine and sacroiliac joints. This group of diseases can cause chronic pain, stiffness, and joint deformities. Doctors classify spondyloarthropathies as autoimmune disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks the joint tissues. These diseases include ankylosing spondylitis, reactive arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, enteropathic arthritis, and juvenile spondyloarthritis.
What Causes Spondyloarthropathy?
Doctors do not know the exact causes of spondyloarthropathies, but a combination of genetic and environmental factors plays a significant role in the development of the disease. The main causes can be summarized as follows:
Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition plays an important role in the development of spondyloarthropathies. People with a genetic marker called HLA-B27 are more likely to develop these diseases.
Immune System Abnormalities: Doctors consider spondyloarthropathies as autoimmune diseases where the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues.
Environmental Factors: Infections and certain environmental triggers can trigger the development of spondyloarthropathy in genetically predisposed individuals. Intestinal infections and some skin infections can especially play a role in the onset of these diseases.
What Are the Symptoms of Spondyloarthropathy?
The symptoms of spondyloarthropathy are as follows:
- back pain and stiffness
- joint pain and swelling
- eye inflammation (uveitis)
- skin lesions
- intestinal problems
- fatigue
How Is Spondyloarthropathy Diagnosed?
The diagnosis of spondyloarthropathy is made through a combination of the patient’s medical history, physical examination findings, and various diagnostic tests. The diagnostic process generally includes the following steps:
Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor evaluates the patient’s symptoms, complaints, and medical history in detail. In the physical examination, symptoms such as pain, swelling, and restricted movement in the joints are looked for.
Blood Tests: Blood tests are conducted to detect the presence of the HLA-B27 genetic marker and to assess inflammation levels. Other autoimmune markers such as rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) may also be tested.
Imaging Methods: Imaging methods such as X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and computed tomography (CT) are used to evaluate inflammation, damage, and structural changes in the joints.
Other Tests: An ophthalmological examination may be conducted to evaluate other systemic symptoms such as eye inflammation (uveitis). Additionally, if there are intestinal symptoms, further tests such as endoscopy may be required to examine the gastrointestinal system.
How Is Spondyloarthropathy Treated?
The treatment of spondyloarthropathy focuses on alleviating the symptoms of the disease, preventing joint damage, and improving patients’ quality of life. Treatment options include:
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs): Commonly used to reduce inflammation and pain. NSAIDs can be effective in alleviating symptoms in the early stages of the disease.
Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic Drugs (DMARDs): DMARDs such as methotrexate and sulfasalazine are used to slow the progression of the disease and prevent joint damage.
Biological Agents: Biological agents like anti-TNF and anti-IL-17 control inflammation by targeting specific components of the immune system. These drugs are particularly effective for patients who do not respond to other treatments.
Corticosteroids: Can be used for short periods to control severe inflammation and pain. However, long-term use is limited due to the risk of side effects.
Physical Therapy and Exercise: Physical therapy programs and regular exercise are recommended to maintain joint mobility and increase muscle strength. This helps reduce the risk of joint stiffness and deformation.
Surgical Intervention: Surgical intervention may be necessary for patients with severe joint damage or deformity. Surgical procedures such as joint replacement can restore joint function and reduce pain.
How Should Spondyloarthropathy Be Managed?
Managing spondyloarthropathy requires a multidisciplinary approach to control the disease and improve the quality of life of patients. Management strategies include:
Regular Medical Follow-Up: It is important for patients to regularly visit their doctor and monitor their response to treatment. If there is no response to treatment, the treatment plan may need to be reviewed.
Patient Education and Awareness: Patients and their families should be informed about spondyloarthropathy and educated on managing the symptoms. This helps patients better understand the disease and adhere to treatment.
Lifestyle Changes: Adopting a healthy lifestyle can improve the overall health status of patients. Balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding stress play an important role in managing spondyloarthropathy.
Physical Activity: Regular exercise is important to maintain joint mobility and increase muscle strength. Activities such as light aerobic exercises, swimming, and yoga may be recommended.
Psychological Support: Living with a chronic disease can lead to psychological stress and depression. Psychological support and counseling services can help patients maintain their emotional well-being.
Work and Social Support: Spondyloarthropathy patients may face difficulties in their work and social life. Therefore, ergonomic arrangements in the workplace and strengthening social support networks are important.
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