Magnetic resonance imaging in ankylosing spondylitis.
OBJECTIVE
The past 18 months has seen considerable advances in the use of MRI for assessment of ankylosing spondylitis, to quantify active inflammation in the spine and sacroiliac joints which may not otherwise be detectable and to therefore measure change due to therapeutic interventions.


RESULTS
Characterization of the extension and morphology of inflammation in ankylosing spondylitis is now possible with MRI techniques. A number of randomized controlled trials of anti-tumour necrosis factor agents in ankylosing spondylitis have now been published showing regression of inflammatory lesions in the spine by MRI. Furthermore, the role of MRI for the early diagnosis of spondyloarthritis has become clearer. This review discusses the techniques used, the capabilities and the shortcomings of MRI in assessing ankylosing spondylitis patients.


CONCLUSIONS
MRI techniques have implications for early identification and intervention in patients with ankylosing spondylitis.
Zochling
Jane
J
Menzies Research Institute, Private Bag 23, Hobart 7000, Australia. jane.zochling@utas.edu.au
Baraliakos
Xenofon
X
Hermann
Kay-Geert
KG
Braun
Jürgen
J
D000328:Adult; D042241:Early Diagnosis; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D010000:Osteitis / Q000473:pathology; D017063:Outcome Assessment, Health Care; D012446:Sacroiliac Joint / Q000473:pathology*; D012720:Severity of Illness Index; D013131:Spine / Q000473:pathology*; D013167:Spondylitis, Ankylosing / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000188:drug therapy