TITLE:
Ankylosing Spondylitis and Systemic Autoimmune Diseases: A Study of 25 Cases in Rheumatology
AUTHORS:
Moustapha Niasse, Ismaïla Diédhiou, Charifah Siddiki, Fatou Sow Diouck, Omar Ndong, Yaye Aminata Niang Guèye, Saïdou Diallo
KEYWORDS:
Ankylosing Spondylitis, Spondyloarthritis, Systemic Autoimmune Diseases
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Rheumatology and Autoimmune Diseases,
Vol.15 No.3,
July
30,
2025
ABSTRACT: Introduction: The coexistence of ankylosing spondylitis and connective tissue diseases is rarely described in sub-Saharan Africa. Objective: To describe the epidemiological, diagnostic and prognostic profile of this association. Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted between January 2021 and March 2025 in the Rheumatology Department of CHU Aristide Le Dantec of Dakar, relocated to the C.O.U.D hospital. We collected data from patients presenting both ankylosing spondylitis and a connective tissue disease. Results: A total of 25 patients (80% women) were included. The mean age was 46 ± 16.9 years. The average diagnostic delay was 12.2 years. Ankylosing spondylitis and connective tissue disease were diagnosed concomitantly in 92% of cases. Axial involvement was noted in 87% of cases, and peripheral manifestations were constant. Mean CRP was 14.4 ± 11.9 mg/L. HLA B27 antigen was positive in 56.25% of cases. Associated systemic autoimmune diseases included Sjögren’s syndrome (20 cases), rheumatoid arthritis (4 cases), and systemic lupus erythematosus (2 cases). One patient had both lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Mean BASDAI and BASFI scores were 25.07 and 21.34 respectively. The SF-36 indicated impaired quality of life across all domains. Conclusion: Our study demonstrates the coexistence of ankylosing spondylitis and connective tissue diseases in clinical practice. This association should be considered in any case of axial and peripheral polyarthritis.