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Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a painful inflammatory arthritis of the spine and sacroiliac joints. Other joints can be affected. AS is also known as
Bechterew's disease or syndrome, Marie Strümpell disease, or spondyloarthritis.
It is a chronic, painful condition that can cause the spine to fuse. This is referred to as bamboo spine. AS is classified as an autoimmune disorder meaning the body attacks itself. There is a strong link to heredity and AS does run in families.
Early diagnosis is important to prevent permanent deformity. Back pain in anyone younger than 40 should be investigated quickly. Other red flags for early AS include morning stiffness that goes away with activity. Buttock pain on one side (it may alternate from side to side) and low back pain and loss of motion are common.
Symptoms that last more than three months should be evaluated by a medical doctor. X-rays and a family history will be taken. The doctor will measure your son's forward motion and chest expansion. These are two important tests for AS. Special MRI views may help shed some light on the condition, especially if it's a form of early AS.
Given your family history and your son's current symptoms, it makes sense to make an appointment to see his doctor. Keep track of all his symptoms from now until his appointment as this will help the physician make the diagnosis.
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