Ankylosing spondylitis CT

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] ; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Manpreet Kaur, MD [2]

Overview[edit | edit source]

The term ankylosing is derived from the Greek word ankylos, meaning stiffening of a joint.CT allows direct visualization of the abnormalities in peripheral and axial joints. CT has resulted in a major improvement in the evaluation and management of patients with AS. Findings on CT scan suggestive of ankylosing spondylitis include erosion, osteoporosis / sclerosis, and new bone formation. However,CT has poor ability to detect soft-tissue changes and best in detecting osteoporosis or osteosclerosis.

CT scan[edit | edit source]

• Findings on CT scan suggestive of ankylosing spondylitis include:^[1][2][3]
  • Erosions
  • Subchondral sclerosis
  • Bony ankylosis
  • Sacroiliitis
  • Bamboo spine
  • Ligamentous ossification and periarticular and intra-articular ankylosis
• Best in demonstrating injuries to the following:
  • Cervical spine fracture especially in advanced ankylosing spondylitis patients

References[edit | edit source]

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