This article will cover new guidelines for treating and testing ankylosing spondylitis.
It will also include alternative treatment options available to manage the symptoms.
Genetic testing is one tool used in thediagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis.
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Genetic testing does not provide a firm confirmation or a complete diagnosis of the condition, however.
If someone has the HLA-B27 gene, it is not guaranteed they will have ankylosing spondylitis.
The association between ankylosing spondylitis and HLA-B27 varies significantly among ethnic and racial groups.
Other gene variations linked to ankylosing spondylitis include ERAP1, IL1A, and IL23R.
These genes also play a role in the immune system.
Researchers do not know how these genes affect a person’s risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis.
New Medications
There are many promising, new medications for the treatment of ankylosing spondylitis.
Each one has its benefits and drawbacks, which will be carefully reviewed by a healthcare provider.
JAK inhibitors fall under the class of medications called disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs).
Doing so also increases a person’s risk of developing an infection.
TNF Inhibitors
Tumor necrosis factor inhibitors(TNFi) are part of the biologics medication class.
These medications block excess tumor necrosis factor (TNF), which increases inflammation in the body.
Medications that are TNFi include:
TNFi is given through an infusion or injection.
This medication is prescribed when NSAIDs are ineffective and is the first choice of biologics for ankylosing spondylitis.
When there is too much IL-17, it can hurt the body.
IL-17 inhibitors are another medication in the biologics class.
They work by stopping IL-17 cytokines from starting the inflammatory process.
Like the other medications mentioned, IL-17 inhibitors increase the likelihood of infection.
They have also been shown to increase the probability of developinginflammatory bowel disease.
IL-23 Inhibitors
Interleukin-23 (IL-23) is another cytokine that can cause inflammation in the body.
The IL-23 inhibitorStelara(ustekinumab) is a biologic medication that blocks IL-23.
How Biologics Work for Ankylosing Spondylitis
Biologics are medications that come from living organisms.
They work by blocking certain parts of the immune response to stop the body from attacking itself.
While this can be successful at treating ankylosing spondylitis, it does carry additional risks like developing an infection.
Water Therapy
Water therapy (hydrotherapy) is a helpful treatment in managing ankylosing spondylitis symptoms.
When someone is in the water, there is less stress on the joints, which can relieve pain.
Physical Therapy
Exercise is an integral part ofankylosing spondylitistreatment.
Movement and exercise will help maintain mobility and flexibility.
Summary
Ankylosing spondylitisis a bang out of spine arthritis with no known cure.
There are several different treatments available to manage the symptoms of the condition.
New research and medications are paving the way for better symptom control and improving quality of life.
A Word From Verywell
There are numerous medications available to people with ankylosing spondylitis.
Keep working with your healthcare provider to find the best medication regimen to manage your symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is no one medication that is most effective at treating ankylosing spondylitis.
If NSAIDs are not managing the symptoms, the next step is a TNFi.
A healthcare provider will help guide patients in finding the best medications for their symptoms.
There is no known cure for ankylosing spondylitis.
Medications are the mainstay treatment for ankylosing spondylitis.
However, exercise and a healthy diet are integral parts to the whole treatment plan.
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