Article

Aortic involvement is a potential life-threatening complication of ankylosing
spondylitis, usually occurring late in the course of this frequent disease.
Inflammatory lesions evolving to fibrosis are primarily localized in the aortic
root causing regurgitation, but this process can extend into the left atrium
(subaortic bump) involving the mitral valve and the heart conduction system.
First, second and third degree atrioventricular blocks are the most common
conduction alterations described and they can be temporary. Chronic periaortitis
has been described in ankylosing spondylitis patients. This disease is
characterized by inflammation evolving to fibrosis and it is localized in the
periaortic and peri-iliac retroperitoneum. It causes compressive effects on
ureters and venous, arterial and lymphatic vessels. Its treatment employs
endoscopic and/or surgical procedures and administration of corticosteroids, even
in association with immunosuppressive agents. Both aortitis (with conduction
system alterations) and periaortitis should be kept in mind by the physicians
because they can significantly influence the prognosis of ankylosing spondylitis
patients and they can need a rapid treatment.
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Langue : ANGLAIS