Ankylosing spondylitis

Axial spondyloarthritis is a chronic progressive inflammatory arthropathy, which ultimately may lead to radiographical changes in the spine and sacroiliac joints. This radiographical stage is known as ankylosing spondylitis. Inflammatory back pain is the hallmark clinical feature. This is defined as back pain that is of insidious onset, is worse in the morning, and improves with exercise. In this podcast, Markku Kauppi, Professor of Rheumatology, Helsinki University, gives a clinical overview of the condition. For more on ankylosing spondylitis, visit BMJ Best Practice: bestpractice.bmj.com/topics/en-gb/366 - The purpose of this podcast is to educate and to inform. The content of this podcast does not constitute medical advice and it is not intended to function as a substitute for a healthcare practitioner’s judgement, patient care or treatment. The views expressed by contributors are those of the speakers. BMJ does not endorse any views or recommendations discussed or expressed on this podcast. Listeners should also be aware that professionals in the field may have different opinions. By listening to this podcast, listeners agree not to use its content as the basis for their own medical treatment or for the medical treatment of others.