[Sacroiliitides in the German armed forces : Axial spondyloarthritis as a differential diagnosis for chronic back pain among young soldiers].

BACKGROUND

Axiale Spondyloarthritis (axSpA) is one of the most frequent rheumatic diseases among young adults.

OBJECTIVES

Determination of the current recommendations for diagnosing and treating axSpA, discussion of the clinical relevance and situation of soldiers with axSpA in the German armed forces.

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Evaluation of national and international guidelines and literature review.

RESULTS

AxSpA might be one of the most common underlying rheumatic diseases requiring treatment and is predicted to be an important differential diagnosis of chronic back pain in soldiers in the German armed forces. Early termination of deployment and possible premature termination of military service are associated with chronic back pain. Currently, axSpA is related to limited serviceability. New specific therapies can prevent impending service disability at an early stage.

CONCLUSION

Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to counteract reduced serviceability.