Clinicians should proactively monitor ankylosing spondylitis patients for early Parkinson’s symptoms, such as tremors, stiffness, or difficulty with movement, to facilitate timely interventions and boost quality of life.
A recent compelling evidence-based meta-analysis published in Elsevier - Joint Bone Spine has drawn attention to the increased risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases (NDs), particularly Parkinson's disease (PD) due to ankylosing spondylitis (AS).
The data from 10 studies involving approximately 852,000 participants, expected to explore the potential association between AS and the risk of NDs was reviewed. The analysis revealed that individuals with AS had a 36% higher likelihood of developing neurodegenerative conditions compared to those without the disease. The risk was particularly pronounced for PD, with AS patients showing a 55% higher risk of developing PD.
However, the link between AS and Alzheimer's disease or dementia was insignificant, implying that the link may be specific to certain neurodegenerative disorders. This analysis highlighted the role of immune dysfunction and inflammation, which are common characteristics of both AS and neurodegenerative disorders. Despite the promising results, experts stressed the need for additional investigation into the causal mechanisms behind this association.
Elsevier - Joint Bone Spine
Association between ankylosing spondylitis and neurodegenerative diseases: systematic review and meta-analysis
Angling Luo et al.
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