Cardiovascular risk in axial spondyloarthritis-a systematic review

Cardiovascular manifestations are common in patients suffering axial spondyloarthritis and can result in substantial morbidity and disease burden. To give an overview of this important aspect of axial spondyloarthritis, we conducted a systematic literature search of all articles published between January 2000 and 25 May 2023 on cardiovascular manifestations. Using PubMed and SCOPUS, 123 out of 6792 articles were identified and included in this review. Non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis seems to be underrepresented in studies; thus, more evidence for ankylosing spondylitis exists. All in all, we found some traditional risk factors that led to higher cardiovascular disease burden or major cardiovascular events. These specific risk factors seem to be more aggressive in patients with spondyloarthropathies and have a strong connection to high or long-standing disease activity. Since disease activity is a major driver of morbidity, diagnostic, therapeutic, and lifestyle interventions are crucial for better outcomes.

Automated summary

Cardiovascular manifestations are frequently observed in patients with axial spondyloarthritis, leading to significant morbidity and disease burden. We conducted a thorough review of articles published between January 2000 and May 25, 2023, focusing on cardiovascular manifestations in axial spondyloarthritis. Despite a lack of research on non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis, evidence suggests a strong association between traditional risk factors and increased cardiovascular disease burden or major cardiovascular events in patients with spondyloarthropathies. Considering disease activity as a major determinant of morbidity, diagnostic, therapeutic, and lifestyle interventions are crucial for improving outcomes.