Axial spondyloarthritis (Axial SpA) is a type of inflammatory arthritis that primarily affects the spine and sacroiliac joints (the joints that connect the base of the spine to the pelvis). It is a chronic condition that can cause pain, stiffness, and limited mobility in the spine and other joints.

Axial SpA is part of a larger group of related conditions called spondyloarthritis (SpA), which also includes peripheral SpA that affects joints outside the spine. Axial SpA is further divided into two subtypes: radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (r-axSpA), which is characterized by changes visible on X-ray or MRI, and non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis (nr-axSpA), which does not show any such changes on imaging but has similar symptoms and disease activity.

The exact cause of Axial SpA is not fully understood, but it is thought to be related to genetic and environmental factors. There is no cure for Axial SpA, but various treatments can help manage symptoms, slow disease progression, and improve quality of life.

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