ABSTRACT

'Window of opportunit' is important for prevention of disease progression and chronic damage in era of inflammatory back pain and axial SpA. Non-radiographic axial SpA and ankylosing spondylitis have similar clinical features and therapeutic strategies. First-line treatment choice in nr-axial SpA is non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). Anti-TNF agents may be selected for patients resistant to NSAID or sulphasalazine. Sertolizumab pegol has been shown to be effective and safe in nr-axial SpA in phase 3, randomized and placebo controlled studies. Prospective follow-up of these patients is still ongoing.