Imagerie dans la spondylarthrite ankylosante : critères et indices

Abstract

Radiography remains the cornerstone of diagnosis of the sacroiliac joints and spinal structural lesions in ankylosing spondylitis. Assessment and quantification of spinal chronic changes relies on radiography; the mSASSS, which is currently the most widely used score is reliable but lacks sensitivity to change. MRI is sensitive to inflammatory changes, and these lesions can be reliably quantified with detailed scoring systems. MRI based scoring systems for sacro-iliac joints and spinal inflammation are highly responsive, allowing assessment in therapeutic studies. There is currently no validated and reliable ultrasound scoring system for peripheral enthesitis. Technological evolution of radiography and MRI should improve the effectiveness and possibilities of the imaging scoring systems in ankylosing spondylitis.