Etiology and Pathology of Ankylosing Spondylitis
Disease description:
I’ve been experiencing back pain frequently when bending over these past few days; it turns out to be caused by ankylosing spondylitis. What are the etiology and pathophysiology of ankylosing spondylitis?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lin Yunfei
The etiology of ankylosing spondylitis may be associated with environmental factors, genetic factors, or immune system abnormalities; trauma, endocrine disorders, and metabolic disturbances may also contribute to its development. However, the precise cause remains unclear. Pathologically, ankylosing spondylitis is primarily characterized by collagen fibrosis of the connective tissue surrounding the spine, leading to the formation of fibro-osseous tissue and eventual loss of joint space, resulting in bony ankylosis.
