Computed tomography versus magnetic resonance imaging : Pros and cons in axial spondyloarthritis

Abstract

The diagnosis of axial spondyloarthritis depends on direct visualization of the sacroiliitis in addition to clinical assessment and determination of the histocompatibility antigen HLA-B27. While the value of conventional radiographic images has meanwhile been described in many studies as insufficient to diagnose the disease at an early stage, magnetic resonance imaging and also computed tomography now offer the possibility to visualize findings, such as bone marrow edema, erosion, fat metaplasia, backfill and ankylosis. Thus, it is necessary to decide which procedure should be used and when. Furthermore, both cross-sectional imaging techniques are currently undergoing major changes, and technical advancements are making great strides every year. This article provides an overview of which future technologies will be included in the rheumatological diagnostics of the sacroiliac joints. This overview also illustrates which standard methods are established in the diagnostics of axial spondyloarthritis and how they are used.