Seronegative Spondyloarthropathies

ABSTRACT

The seronegative spondyloarthropathies are a heterogenous groups of inflammatory diseases which may present with sacroilitis, inflammatory arthritis, spondylitis and enthesitis, as well as extra-articular manifestations of inflammation most commonly involving the eye, skin and gastrointestinal tract. There is a familial preponderance to these conditions, and an association with the HLA-B27 gene. The new ASAS classification system for these conditions aims to classify patients into 2 broad categories based on the predominant site of their symptoms. The diagnosis of early spondyloarthropathy relies on a detailed history and physical examination as radiographic changes occur late, and blood work-up may be normal. Management of these chronic diseases requires a holistic multidisciplinary approach with both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions in recent years, many newer therapies, especially biologic agents have become available for treatment of these conditions.