Early Spondyloarthritis

Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is a large family of chronic inflammatory diseases characterized by inflammation of the axial skeleton, a typically asymmetric peripheral arthritis of the lower limbs, enthesitis, typical extra-articular manifestations, and shared genetic background. The prevalence in the general population is up to 2% for the entire group. SpA, particularly ankylosing spondylitis, has been associated with a diagnostic delay of up to 10 years. Important efforts toward shortening this delay have been made, including the development of new classification criteria. This article discusses the current concept of the disease, typical manifestations, advances in diagnosis, and current treatment recommendations.