Definition:
Sacroiliitis is a condition in which one or both of the joints that connect the lower spine and pelvis are inflammed.
Diagnosis:
Doctors have difficulty diagnosisng sacroiliitis. Thus, they confirm their diagnosis based on localized pain experienced by the patient, results of X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging scan of the sacroiliac joints, cultures of fluid from the sacroiliac joint, or blood culture if an infection is the cause.
Treatment:
The condition is treated based on its underlying cause as well as its signs and symptoms. Medications may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs, and tumor necrosis factor inhibitors. Physical therapy may also be conducted to reduce pain and stiffness.
Symptoms and Signs:
Sacroiliitis may manifest as pain and stiffness in the lower back, thighs, or buttocks; pain that affects the hips and shoulders; bloody diarrhea; inflammation in one or both eyes; or psoriasis. The patient may also experience a low-grade fever.
Causes:
Sacroiliitis is caused by a variety of factors such as heavy lifting, a traumatic injury or sudden impact, spondyloarthropathies, degenerative arthritis, and pregnancy. Sometimes the condition is caused by food bacteria called brucellosis.
