Written By: IJCP Editorial Team

Published On: 08 May, 2023 5:14 PM | Updated On: 21 May, 2024 10:17 AM

Biologic Drugs Can Reverse Axial Spondyloarthritis (AS) In Young Patients

Axial spondyloarthritis (AS) patients in the 16-45 age group can now benefit from the positive developments in biologic drugs, which have made it possible to significantly reverse the effects of the condition and improve the overall quality of life. Medical experts at King George’s Medical University (KGMU) have reported that biologic drugs are a more effective treatment option for managing AS.

AS is a type of arthritis that commonly affects the chest, spine, and pelvis. It is a genetic disease in which the immune system of the patient attacks their joints. This leads to lower back pain and stiffness that typically gets better with movement because of fusion of the vertebrae. AS can progressively worsen and have negative impacts on the patient's quality of life, causing physical pain and emotional issues such as trauma, anxiety, and depression.

During an ongoing medical, educational program organized by the Physician Association of India in Lucknow, experts discussed the prevalence of this condition, which ranges from nine to 30 per 10,000 in the general population based on recent studies. Professor KK Sawlani from the Medicine Department at KGMU spoke at the event, urging patients to consider biologic drugs as an effective treatment option. He stated, “Traditionally, patients have been advised to exercise and take painkillers as their only options, but biologic drugs have shown significant improvements and even reversal of symptoms in AS patients.” The Faculty members from the rheumatology department at KGMU discussed the benefits and precautions of using biologic drugs, suggesting continuing exercise and supervision to manage the hyperactive immune system. The program also covered topics such as MRI brain interpretation and the use of CT chest and abdomen for bedside diagnosis.