Concepts in monitoring enthesitis in patients with spondylarthritis--the role of musculoskeletal ultrasound

Med Ultrason. 2016 Mar;18(1):82-9. doi: 10.11152/mu.2013.2066.181.mcm.

Abstract

Enthesitis is the key pathological lesion in the spondyloarthritides group and an important element for early diagnosis with a predictive and prognostic value. The recognition of enthesitis on a clinical basis alone remains a challenge and creates unnecessary delays in diagnosis and adequate treatment commencement. Musculoskeletal ultrasound is a valid, reliable, and feasible imaging tool valuable for identifying inflammatory and structural lesions at enthesis level, helpful in establishing a diagnosis, evaluating disease activity and therapy monitoring. This paper focuses on the most relevant aspects of current literature regarding enthesitis and highlights the musculoskeletal ultrasound added value in enthesis assessment.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods*
  • Joints / diagnostic imaging*
  • Male
  • Spondylarthritis / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tendinopathy / diagnostic imaging*
  • Tendons / diagnostic imaging*