Ankylosing Spondylitis synonyms

Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is a form of inflammatory arthritis officially classified under the umbrella of axial spondyloarthritis. While it is most commonly referred to as Ankylosing Spondylitis, it has historically been known as Bechterew's disease or Marie-Strümpell disease, and it is frequently identified in clinical coding as part of the spondyloarthropathy spectrum.

What are the historical and alternative names for Ankylosing Spondylitis?

In medical literature, you may encounter several names for Ankylosing Spondylitis. The term "Ankylosing" refers to the fusion of bones, while "Spondylitis" refers to inflammation of the vertebrae. Historically, the condition was named after the physicians who first described it, leading to the terms Bechterew's disease (after Vladimir von Bechterew), Marie-Strümpell disease, and Marie-Strümpell-Bechterew disease. While these historical names are rarely used in modern clinical practice, they often appear in older medical records or classic research papers. Patients should be aware that these terms refer to the exact same condition as Ankylosing Spondylitis.

How is the condition classified in modern medicine?

Modern rheumatology now categorizes Ankylosing Spondylitis as a primary subset of axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA). This classification helps clinicians distinguish between cases that show clear bone damage on X-rays (radiographic axSpA, which is synonymous with classic Ankylosing Spondylitis) and those that show inflammation detectable only on MRI (non-radiographic axSpA). In official classification systems, you will find the following identifiers:

• ICD-10-CM: M45.9 (Ankylosing spondylitis of unspecified sites).


• OMIM: #106300 (Ankylosing Spondylitis).


• Orphanet: ORPHA:834 (Ankylosing Spondylitis).

Why does Ankylosing Spondylitis have so many names?

The evolution of the name Ankylosing Spondylitis reflects our growing understanding of the disease. Initially, it was viewed as a localized spinal condition, leading to names centered on the physical fusion of the spine. As research progressed, clinicians realized the disease affects the immune system and can cause symptoms in the digestive system, eyes, and peripheral joints. Consequently, medical professionals now prefer the term "axial spondyloarthritis" to encompass the full systemic nature of the condition, though Ankylosing Spondylitis remains the standard term for the specific diagnosis involving structural spinal changes.

What should patients know about medical documentation?

If you are reviewing your medical records, you may see your diagnosis listed as "Spondyloarthropathy" or "Seronegative Spondyloarthritis." These are broader diagnostic categories. Because 2,109 people with Ankylosing Spondylitis have joined the DiseaseMaps.org community, we know that clear communication with your doctor is vital. If your records use an older or broader term, do not be alarmed; it is common for clinicians to use various codes within the same disease family to facilitate insurance and treatment pathways.

Next steps

• Consult a board-certified rheumatologist to confirm your specific diagnosis and its classification within the axial spondyloarthritis spectrum.


• Request a copy of your imaging reports (X-rays or MRIs) to understand if your diagnosis is classified as radiographic or non-radiographic.


• Join the DiseaseMaps.org community to connect with over 2,100 others living with this condition and share experiences regarding symptom management.


• Discuss any new or changing symptoms—such as digestive issues or peripheral joint pain—with your specialist, as these are critical to managing the systemic effects of the disease.

Medical disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition.

References

• Orphanet: orpha.net


• NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): rarediseases.info.nih.gov


• Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM): omim.org


• Spondylitis Association of America: spondylitis.org