Differentiation of Inflammation and Ossification in Spondylarthritis Ankylopoietica

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Abstract
Summary In 50 patients with classic spondylarthritis ankylopoietica, the “collagen-like” protein (CLP), the immune globulins, the SR and the alpha2-globulin fraction, besides clinical and x-ray diagnostics, were determined and compared with data from 40 normal persons. Progressive spondylarthritis ankylopoietica was always correlated to an elevated CLP level in plasma. Besides CLP, in the cases of an active inflammatory rheumatic process, there was also an increase of the immune globulins, of the SR, and probably of the alpha2-globulins. If, on the other hand, the activity is seen in the ossifying process, only the CLP level was elevated. The latter was correlated to the activity, not to the extent of ossification as estimated by x-ray. In spite of the methods mentioned, the states of some patients with simultaneous inflammation and ossification cannot be differentiated except by observing the clinical course. Nevertheless a good method of differentiation has been created for many patients and thus the foundation of specific therapy has been laid.