title: [Ankylosing spondylitis is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality].
abstract: Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammatory disorder primarily affecting the axial skeleton. The disease is associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Structural changes in the heart, and arteriosclerosis secondary to inflammation may be of importance. The role of traditional cardiovascular risk factors and of anti-inflammatory treatment is unclear. Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors seem to increase cholesterol levels. Evaluation of the cardiovascular risk in these patients should be considered. Cardiovascular risk factors should be managed according to ordinary guidelines.
authors.affiliation: Reumatologisk Funktion, Medicinsk Afdeling C, Gentofte Hospital, 2900 Hellerup, Denmark. rintek@dadlnet.dk
authors.forename: Ole Rintek
authors.initials: OR
authors.lastname: Madsen
authors.forename: Jesper
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Lindhardsen
mesh_terms: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000627:therapeutic use; D018501:Antirheumatic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology* / Q000401:mortality; D050171:Dyslipidemias / Q000150:complications; D006801:Humans; D018836:Inflammation Mediators / Q000378:metabolism; D009206:Myocardium / Q000473:pathology; D012307:Risk Factors; D013167:Spondylitis, Ankylosing / Q000150:complications* / Q000188:drug therapy
chemical_list: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D018501:Antirheumatic Agents; D018836:Inflammation Mediators