Axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) is a significant problem in IBD. Up to 5% of patients seen in Professor Orchard’s clinics have evidence of ankylosing spondylitis, the radiographic form of axial SpA, whereby structural changes to the spine or sacroiliac joints are observed via X-ray. Evidence suggests that up to 13% of individuals with IBD may have axial SpA. Therefore, gastroenterologists can play a key role in reducing the unacceptable 8.5-year delay to diagnosis in axial SpA.
Professor Orchard provides an overview of key symptoms to look out for, in addition to advice on when to refer rheumatology and how to treat comorbid axial SpA and IBD.
The key symptoms to look out for are:
The key imaging diagnostic used by rheumatologists currently is an MRI of the sacroiliac joints. If there is evidence of sacroiliitis on MRI and patients are also experiencing axial SpA symptoms, then referral to rheumatology is recommended. Rheumatology specialist input to conduct the MRI is recommended in most cases, as a specific axial SpA MRI protocol should be used, and correct interpretation can be challenging in the context of axial SpA. Therefore, in most cases, NASS would advise considering referral of all individuals with IBD and chronic (>3-months) back pain with onset before the age of 45 straight to rheumatology. This can often be done via an internal tertiary referral pathway.
Joint management between gastroenterology and rheumatology is key and will give the best outcomes for patients. However, if that is not possible, rheumatological input is still critical when considering changing medications.
IBD and axial SpA patients respond to the same medications in a lot of cases – for example, the anti-TNFs. Indeed, presence of sacroiliitis or spondyloarthritis can be a trigger for using anti-TNFs to manage both IBD and potential spondyloarthritis symptoms. However, it is important to note that some biologics have differential effects on the two types of inflammation. For example, the IL-12/IL-23 inhibitors such as ustekinumab are not effective for axial SpA but are effective for Crohn’s disease. Similarly, IL-17 inhibitors are effective for the management of axial SpA, but not IBD. And indeed, even for anti-TNFs, doses differ between specialties. Hence, the importance of joint gastroenterology and rheumatology consultation to provide the optimal medication.
For information, advice and to join a community of people who live with the condition visit the NASS website. Or visit our helpline.
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