Bechterev’s disease (Ankylosing spondylitis)

About the disease

Bechterev’s Disease (Rheumatoid Spondylitis / Ankylosing Spondylitis) – a disease that causes inflammation in the spine – causes pain and stiffness in the back, as a result of inflammation in the sacro-iliac, vertebral and vertebral joints. In the process of the disease involved internal organs (heart, kidneys, lungs). The effects of inflammation form an environment for splice (ankylosis)

Bechterev’s disease is a disease whose symptoms may appear at the age of 15 years. Due to loss of elasticity of the connection and mobility of the joints of the movement become more painful and difficult.

The disease begins with sacral and iliac bone, extends to the lumbar spine and progresses to the upper part of the back, chest, and neck. At the last stage of the disease, complete ossification of vertebral joints occurs. The effects of ossification can appear on the edges, limiting the mobility and volume of the chest, which leads to difficulties in the process of breathing.

Arthritis of peripheral joints (hip joint, shoulder joint, knee and ankle) are diagnosed in more than half of patients with AS and may indicate the diagnosis and development of Bechterev’s Disease.

According to recent studies, Bekhterev’s disease has a tendency to develop in the family and is diagnosed three times more often in men than in women. At Bekhterev’s Disease, life-threatening complications may occur. Such complications constitute the greatest danger for heart and aorta affection – in 20% of patients there is shortness of breath, there arise pain and trouble in the work of the heart. In one third of patients, the disease leads to chronic renal failure. Reducing chest motility contributes to the development of pulmonary diseases.