CT Findings of Sacroiliac Joints in Ankylosing Spondylitis(An Analysis of 80 Cases) / 实用放射学杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To sum up CT findings of sacroiliac joints in ankylosing spondylitis with an attempt at further improving early and even accurate diagnosis of the disease.Methods CT features of sacroiliac joints in 80 cases with anklyosing spondylitis proved clinically were analysed,and their application in making the diagnosis was evaluated.Results 73 of the 80 cases had abnormal CT findings of the joints,with different features according to different stages of the disease.In early stage,most cases were with symmetric involvement of the joints showing shaggy appearance of the articular surface with interruption or disappearance of the joint cortex,subcortical microcysts and mild sclerosis of iliac surface of joint .In advanced stage,cases were with irregularity of sacroiliac articular surfaces,showing serrated or brush-like appearance,subcortical systic destruction,sclerosis or hypertrophic changes around the joints,and pseudo-widening,irregular narrowing or even vacuumization of the joint space.In the late or stable stage,ossification of ligaments,bony ankylosis of the joints with obliteration of joint space and osteoporosis or osteosclerosis were seen.Conclusion CT study of sacroiliac joints could be helpful in making an early and even accurate diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis as well as in clinical staging of the disease.