STATE OF EXTERNAL RESPIRATORY FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH ANKYLOSING SPONDYLITIS
Abstract
<strong>Abstract</strong> Objective: Comprehensive clinical and functional assessment of the respiratory system in patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS). Material and Methods: We investigated 35 AS patients aged between 22 to 60 years, with disease duration of 6.1±2.5 years. We assessed clinical disease indices (ASDAS, BASFI, BASMI), morning stiffness, acute phase reactants, severity of radiological involvement in sacroiliac, vertebral, chest joints, spirometry, and ultrasound research of hip joints. Results: Lung vital capacity (LVC) reduction was noted in 32 (91.4%) patients and in 28 (80%) patients was below 10% of the due amount. The index FEV1 was reduced in 15 (42.8%) patients, FVC in 13 (37.1%) ones. Conclusions: The obtained results extend the capabilities of early diagnosis of lung lesions in AS, as well as allow us to determine the nature of pulmonary flow process in connection with the degree of air violations, which isof great importance to the timely appointment of adequate therapy.