Peripheral Seronegative Spondyloarthritis – Updates on Critical Criteria

Abstract

In the past decade, new clinical and imaging criteria have vastly improved the diagnosis and outcome of patients with seronegative spondyloarthritis (SpA). It is estimated that up to 30% of patients with SpA may exhibit predominant (or only) peripheral manifestations of SpA. Lack of awareness can lead to a diagnostic delay of up to 8–9 years which can lead to significant patient morbidity. It is, therefore, essential to diagnose and treat SpA as early as possible. The aim of this pictorial review is to emphasize the important aspects of current peripheral SpA classification system and demonstrates the imaging findings related to peripheral SpA. Patients referred for imaging of peripheral joints can be from a wide referral source. Recognizing and reporting imaging features suggestive of peripheral SpA will allow appropriate and timely specialist referral with the aim of avoiding treatment delay.