Interpretation of "positive MRI" of sacroiliac joints in axial spondyloarthritis
ZHAO Zheng
CHENG Liu-quan
ZHU Jian
Abstract：The Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society(ASAS)definitions of "positive MRI" for axial spondyloarthritis(axSpA)are an integral part of its classification criteria.However,these definitions are not intended for clinical practice and often leads to an overestimation of inflammatory sacroiliitis,with a significantly increased risk of misdiagnosis in radiographically negative cases,which provide only limited guidance for image interpretation in daily practice and should not be used as the basis for confirming a diagnosis.Therefore,mastering the basic principles of ASAS definitions of "positive MRI" and ASAS classification criteria,their correct application in research,and the reasons why they should not be used in clinical practice is an essential condition for the accurate diagnosis of axSpA.The diagnosis of axSpA should be made through a comprehensive judgment based on the overall clinical picture,with attention to the clinical relevance of imaging signs and adherence to the logic of individualized diagnosis and treatment.
Keywords：axial spondyloarthritismagnetic resonance imagingdifferential diagnosis
Publication Date：2025-09-01
Online Publishing Date：2025-10-21(First online date of this platform, not the publication date of the document)
Pages：7( 729-735 )