Published online Feb 16, 2024. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v12.i5.1018
Peer-review started: December 6, 2023
First decision: December 21, 2023
Revised: January 4, 2024
Accepted: January 24, 2024
Article in press: January 24, 2024
Published online: February 16, 2024
Processing time: 56 Days and 1.6 Hours
Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory disease. The prevailing theory links AS onset to infections in susceptible individuals. Furthermore, infections may impair the immune responses. Numerous studies have investigated links between AS and various infections-bacterial, viral, fungal, and other microorganism infections. However, limited attention has been given to the association between AS and Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) infection.
A 27-year-old male with a 10-yr history of AS presented to our hospital with inflammatory lower back pain as the primary manifestation. Ten years ago, the patient had achieved a stable condition after treatment with biological agents. However, he experienced a recurrence of lumbosacral pain with an unexplained cause 10 d before hospital admission. A lumbosacral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan revealed bone marrow edema in the left sacroiliac joint, and laboratory indicators were elevated. Moreover, the presence of C. sinensis eggs was detected in the stool. The patient was prescribed praziquantel, resulting in the disap
C. sinensis infections could potentially trigger the exacerbation of AS. Clinicians should pay attention to investigating the presence of infections.
Core Tip: This study explored the link between Clonorchis sinensis (C. sinensis) infection and ankylosing spondylitis (AS). While previous research extensively explored the association between AS and various infections, the association with C. sinensis received limited attention. The findings highlight the potential role of parasitic infections, particularly C. sinensis, in affecting AS disease activity. This study provides valuable insights into the less-explored aspects of AS etiology, emphasizing the need for further investigation into parasitic infections to comprehend and manage AS.