https://doi.org/10.4081/reumatismo.2024.1767
Ultrasound as a tool for the diagnosis of spondylarthritis in women
Published: 11 September 2024
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All claims expressed in this article are solely those of the authors and do not necessarily represent those of their affiliated organizations, or those of the publisher, the editors and the reviewers. Any product that may be evaluated in this article or claim that may be made by its manufacturer is not guaranteed or endorsed by the publisher.
Authors
Objective. The journey to a diagnosis of spondyloarthritis (SpA) can be difficult for women, who often experience delays in receiving the correct diagnosis as their symptoms are frequently misinterpreted due to other conditions like osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, or other psychosomatic disorders. The purpose of this article is to examine the challenges in the diagnosis of SpA in women and the possible role of musculoskeletal ultrasound in early diagnosis and in avoiding misdiagnosis.
Methods. We have performed a narrative review of the currently available literature on the subject.
Results. The complexity of diagnosing SpA in women is compounded by the misconception that the disease predominantly affects men. To facilitate early diagnosis and prevent misdiagnosis, it is crucial not to overlook gender differences in the clinical presentation of SpA. Since women have more peripheral and enthesitic involvement, performing an ultrasound of entheses, tendons, and joints in women with musculoskeletal symptoms that could refer to SpA may help both in the early and differential diagnosis.
Conclusions. There is a need to increase awareness among physicians of the existence of a different clinical presentation of SpA between men and women. The use of musculoskeletal ultrasound, which allows the detection of even subclinical inflammation and structural damage since early disease at the level of joints, tendons, and entheses can help make an early diagnosis and avoid misdiagnosis. Early diagnosis and timely treatment of SpA are crucial to reducing irreversible damage.
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How to Cite
Donzella, D., Bellis, E., & Iagnocco, A. (2024). Ultrasound as a tool for the diagnosis of spondylarthritis in women. Reumatismo, 76(3). https://doi.org/10.4081/reumatismo.2024.1767
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