The early spondyloarthritis (ESPA): Concept, role of new imaging techniques, therapeutic opportunities and research agenda

Introduction The interest on early Spondyloarthtiris (eSpA) is born in the last ten years for the acknowledgment of the “evidence based” utility of the rapid diagnostic and therapeutic approach in this disease. The aim of this review was to discuss early spondyloarthritis in detail. Discussion The chronological definition of eSpA is not uniform in literature. ASAS criteria, together with the use of MRI and US in early diagnosis have increased the diagnostic power and the capacity to classify eSpA. Few issues investigated and codified the use of DMARDs and antiTNFalpha in early phases. Conclusion Future studies must be conducted in the future to better clarify MRI and US findings and the role of other imaging techniques in early phase. Furthermore, an intensified research on efficacy of treatments in early phase with prospective studies are needed in the future.