Ankylosing spondylitis AS currently grouped under the term axial spondyloarthritis axSpA is a chronic form of arthritis that causes inflammatory back pain and can gradually result in impaired spinal mobility It can also cause eye inflammation uveitis arthritis of limb joints inflammation at sites of bony attachments of tendons and ligaments enthesitis and associated psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease No cure has yet been found; however early diagnosis and proper medical and lifestyle management are very important in reducing the risk of deformity and disability Written by a leading expert on the subject who himself has been living with AS since age 12 this book provides clear and practical information on the clinical symptoms and signs underlying causes genetic predisposition diagnosis treatments and impact on daily life The combination of scientific knowledge and personal experience results in a unique book which will prove invaluable for patients and their families and friends as well as allied health professionals and students wishing to know more about the condition The second edition has been fully updated to cover the tremendous advancements made in the clinical recognition and effective management since the first edition in 2002 It also includes a glossary of medical terms and links to sources of further information to give patients the tools they need to understand and manage the condition effectively
