Extra-articular manifestations (EAMs) are common, important features of axial spondyloarthritis (axial SpA) – the most prevalent being acute anterior uveitis (AAU), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and psoriasis. The pooled prevalence of AAU, psoriasis and IBD in axial SpA has previously been estimated at 16–23%, 10–11% and 4–6%, respectively¹. Across the axial SpA spectrum (from non-radiographic axial SpA to radiographic axial SpA – radiographic axial SpA otherwise known as ankylosing spondylitis), the prevalence of EAMs is broadly similar. With the exception of AAU, which is slightly more prevalent in ankylosing spondylitis. EAMs contribute to the disease burden and add further complexity to the management of axial SpA². However, they offer an excellent opportunity to pick up axial SpA early in secondary care specialities such as ophthalmology, gastroenterology and dermatology. Below, we summarise some of the key research publications discussing EAMs in axial SpA.

1. de Winter JJ, van Mens LJ, van der Heijde D, Landewé R, Baeten DL. Prevalence of peripheral and extra-articular disease in ankylosing spondylitis versus non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: a meta-analysis. Arthritis Res Ther. 2016;18(1):196.
2. Gao X, Wendling D, Botteman MF, Carter JA, Rao S, Cifaldi M. Clinical and economic burden of extra-articular manifestations in ankylosing spondylitis patients treated with anti-tumor necrosis factor agents. Journal of medical economics. 2012;15(6):1054-63.