Syndesmophyte

Syndesmophyte is a vertical osteophyte of the vertebra that forms in diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter's syndrome or psoriatic arthritis.

Syndesmophyte is a bone outgrowth that forms at the sites of attachment of tendons and ligaments to the vertebral bodies. Typically, syndesmophytes occur along the anterior surface of the vertebral bodies.

With the progression of the disease and further growth of syndesmophytes, their fusion with syndesmophytes of neighboring vertebrae may occur. This leads to a significant limitation of the mobility of the spine and the development of its rigidity, which is observed in severe forms of the listed diseases.

Thus, syndesmophytes play an important role in the pathogenesis and progression of ankylosing spondylitis, leading to serious functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system.

Syndesmophyte: Vertical osteophytes, evidence of progression of inflammatory diseases of the spine

Introduction:
Syndesmophytes, also known as vertical osteophytes, are structures that form as a result of the progression of certain inflammatory diseases of the spine. They are often observed in ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter's syndrome and psoriatic arthritis. Fusion of syndesmophytes of adjacent vertebrae leads to the development of spinal rigidity, which can lead to significant limitations in movement and a deterioration in the patient’s quality of life. In this article we will look at the main aspects of syndesmophytes, their connection with inflammatory diseases of the spine and the consequences that they can cause.

Definition and formation of syndesmophytes:
Syndesmophytes are vertical osteophytes that form around the articular surfaces of the vertebrae. They are new growths of bone tissue and usually result from chronic inflammation of the spine, such as ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter's syndrome or psoriatic arthritis.

Ankylosing spondylitis:
Ankylosing spondylitis is one of the most common diseases associated with the formation of syndesmophytes. It is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine and joints. In ankylosing spondylitis, inflammation leads to the gradual formation of syndesmophytes between the articular surfaces of the vertebrae. Over time, syndesmophytes can fuse, causing vertebral fusion and loss of spinal mobility.

Reiter's syndrome and psoriatic arthritis:
Reiter's syndrome and psoriatic arthritis may also be associated with the formation of syndesmophytes. Reiter's syndrome is an inflammatory disease characterized by damage to the joints, bladder and eyes. Psoriatic arthritis is a form of arthritis that develops in patients with psoriasis. Both of these diseases can cause inflammation of the spine and the formation of syndesmophytes.

Consequences of syndesmophytes:
Fusion of syndesmophytes of adjacent vertebrae can lead to the development of spinal rigidity. In the initial stages of the disease, patients may experience restrictions in the mobility of the spine, especially in the lumbar and cervical region. As the disease progresses, stiffness may become more severe, leading to a significant decrease in spinal flexibility.

Syndesmophytes can also cause pain and discomfort in the back. Patients may experience chronic pain, which can severely limit their ability to perform daily tasks and activities. In addition, syndesmophytes can affect the position of the spine and cause deformities such as bending and scoliosis.

It is important to note that syndesmophytes may be detected on x-rays or other educational studies of the spine. They are important clinical signs of the progression of inflammatory diseases of the spine and can be used to diagnose and assess their severity.

Treatment and management:
Treatment for syndesmophytes is aimed at controlling inflammation and reducing symptoms. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticosteroids or immunomodulators are often used. Physical therapy and exercise can also help maintain spinal flexibility and reduce pain.

In some cases, when syndesmophytes lead to severe spinal deformities and significant limitation of movement, surgical intervention may be required. Surgical procedures may include resection of syndesmophytes, correction of deformities, and stabilization of the spine.

Conclusion:
Syndesmophytes are vertical osteophytes that form in ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter's syndrome and psoriatic arthritis. They are evidence of the progression of inflammatory diseases of the spine and can lead to the development of spinal rigidity and limitation of movement. Early detection and adequate management of syndesmophytes can help improve patients' quality of life and reduce the negative consequences of this condition.