J Korean Rheum Assoc.  2004 Dec;11(4):453-456.

A Case of Coexistent Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome and Ankylosing Spondylitis

• Yoon HJ
• Jo S
• Hong SN
• Lee SS

Abstract

Benign Joint Hypermobility Syndrome (BJHS) is characterized by generalized ligamentous laxity, with associated tendency to recurrent sprain and dislocation. Whereas ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is characterized by ankylosis and loss of mobility of the affected joints by fibrosis and ossification of cartilage and enthesis. The association of these two pathologies is rare. We report on a 18-year old man with a joint hypermobility and laxity as well as accompanying 18-month history of back pain at the lumbar spine, both knee and left buttock pain. At physical examination the patient presented 5 points of Nine-Point Beighton hypermobility score and limitation of movement in the lumbar spine due to back pain. Magnetic resonance imaging of the pelvis showed bilateral sacroiliitis and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein (CRP) were elevated and HLA B27 was positive. Transthoracic echocardiography and opthalmologic examination excluded other cause of joint hypermobility. We diagnosed co-existent BJHS and AS.

Keyword

Benign joint hypermobility syndrome; Ankylosing spondylitis

MeSH Terms

Adolescent
Ankylosis
Back Pain
Blood Sedimentation
Buttocks
C-Reactive Protein
Cartilage
Dislocations
Echocardiography
Fibrosis
Humans
Joint Instability*
Joints*
Knee
Ligaments
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Pathology
Pelvis
Physical Examination
Sacroiliitis
Spine
Spondylitis, Ankylosing*
Sprains and Strains
C-Reactive Protein