Ankylosing spondylitis: how does it affect the quality of life?

Abstract

(1x15 mg) was initiated. Disease activity reevaluation 3 weeks later showed no significant improvement and even worsening in some assessments (BASDAI 6.6/10, BASFI 6.6/10, PGA 7/10, VAS for pain 6/10, fatigue 6/10 and impairment of overall health 30/100), although mental health was still impeccable (BDI 0/63). According to guidelines, full reevaluation of upadacitinib effect is made after 3 months, as 3 weeks is too soon. CONCLUSION: Effects of rheumatologic diseases on life quality and mental health must be evaluated for each patient individually. Discordance between disease severity and patient’s mental wellbeing is possible, as is shown in this case. Nonetheless, alternative treatment options should be considered until adequate disease control is achieved.