Study Highlights Need for Better Physician Education on Axial Spondyloarthritis
A Yale School of Medicine study reveals that many physicians treating **chronic back pain** lack awareness of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), leading to delayed diagnoses. Despite affecting 1.4% of the population, axSpA is often overlooked for 8–14 years, increasing risks of spinal damage and cardiovascular issue. . A survey of 750 doctors found that only 54% of non-rheumatologists recognized axSpA, and just 40% routinely screened for it. Additionally, only ‘half knew that a pelvic X-ray’ is the key diagnostic test. To address this, researchers are developing national referral guidelines to improve early detection.
Many physicians treating chronic back pain lack awareness about axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA)—a chronic inflammatory condition—and often fail to screen for it, according to a Yale School of Medicine study published in the Journal of Rheumatology.
Despite affecting 1.4% of the population, axSpA is frequently misdiagnosed or overlooked, with patients waiting 8 to 14 years for a proper diagnosis. This delay can lead to irreversible spine damage and increase risks of heart disease, stroke, and hypertension, said Dr. Abhijeet Danve, the study’s lead author.
A survey of 750 U.S. physicians found that while 75% of non-rheumatologists were familiar with inflammatory back pain, only 54% recognized axSpA. Additionally, only 40% routinely assessed patients for its symptoms, compared to nearly all rheumatologists.
One key issue is diagnostic imaging—only half of non-rheumatologists knew that a pelvic X-ray is the recommended first test. This gap in knowledge contributes to missed diagnoses and delayed referrals to rheumatologists.
The study emphasizes the need for formal referral guidelines, with ‘81% of non-rheumatologists and 97% of rheumatologists supporting their development. ‘Dr. Danve and colleagues are now working on national referral guidelines to improve early detection and treatment.
Disclaimer
This study is based on survey data and medical research. The findings highlight trends in physician knowledge and referral practices but do not represent absolute clinical standards. Further research and guideline development are ongoing.
source : Phys.org