Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Comprehensive Review of Clinical Manifestations, Imaging Modalities, Pharmacological Management, and Surgical Interventions

Abstract

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a long-lasting advancing autoimmune inflammatory condition that mainly targets the axial skeleton, sacroiliac joints and enthuses. It frequently results in pain stiffness and structural damage including syndesmophyte formation and spinal ankylosis. AS has a robust genetic foundation particularly linked to the HLA-B27 gene. It also encompasses intricate interactions among immune dysregulation, microbial triggers and environmental influences. Extra-articular manifestations including anterior uveitis gastrointestinal involvement and cardiac abnormalities, add to the disease burden. Diagnosis is based on clinical assessment imaging techniques such as X-ray and MRI along with corroborative lab tests. Strategies for treatment comprise NSAIDs biologic DMARDs (notably TNF-α inhibitors) IL-17 inhibitors and new JAK inhibitors as well as physical therapy and changes in lifestyle.Severe deformities or complications are the only cases in which surgery is performed. This article examines the etiology and clinical features of ASas well as diagnostic methods and evidence based treatment recommendations. It emphasizes that early diagnosis and targeted therapy are essential for improving patient outcomes.