The spondyloarthropathies are a group of rheumatic disorders that tend to affect the spine. In this disorder, certain joints of the spine become inflamed, stiffen, become rigid, and then fuse together. If confined to the lower back, AS causes virtually no limitation of movement. In some cases, however, the entire spine may become rigid and bent. If the joints between the ribs and spine are affected, breathing problems may result as the chest wall's ability to expand becomes limited.
Postural deformities are common.
Two and a half times as many men as women have this disorder. It typically attacks the smaller joints of the feet and hands, especially the big toe. Deposits of crystallized uric acid salt in the joint cause swelling, redness, and a sensation of heat and extreme pain. Some 1 million Americans suffer from gout.