Can Structural Damage Be Prevented in Ankylosing Spondylitis Medscape

Description: Current treatment of ankylosing spondylitis such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-blockers have shown a good efficacy on sign and symptoms. However, it is less clear whether and how structural damage, determined mainly by new bone formation, can be prevented. Recent progress of the research addressing this question is presented here.
Summary: Future research has to clarify whether structural damage can best be prevented by early and effective treatment of inflammation or whether new bone formation has to be targeted additionally.
Joachim Sieper Curr Opin Rheumatol. 2009;21(4):335-339.