9 Spondyloarthritides in females

Few studies have been performed regarding clinical, radiological and prognostic features of females with spondyloarthropathies other than ankylosing spondylitis (AS). In AS, clinical manifestations appear similar in men and women, whereas radiological features appear more frequent and severe in males. However, no consistent differences in outcome and mortality between men and women have been disclosed.

Although fetal outcome is not compromised in women with spondyloarthropathy (SpA), the interaction of pregnancy and SpA has been studied in detail only in AS. Spinal disease is unchanged while peripheral arthritis and uveitis are suppressed during childbearing. Due to possible maternal and fetal side-effects, NSAIDs must be discontinued during the last 8 weeks of pregnancy, but during lactation several NSAIDs can be used. Treatment with sulphasalazine is compatible with pregnancy and lactation. Children of AS patients exhibit a slightly increased risk of developing SpA later in life.