The annual rate of sacroiliitis and disease detection using magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, and X-ray: A single-center experience

Abstract

Abstract: Inflammation of the sacroiliac joint (SIJ), termed sacroiliitis, commonly presents as chronic back pain. A definitive diagnosis is made using a variety of radiological techniques that differ in specificity and sensitivity. This study aims to estimate the annual incidence of sacroiliitis and to explore the frequency of multiple modalities used in its evaluation. a retrospective analytic study that examined patients’ records of diagnostic imaging of the SIJ (magnetic resonance imaging [MRI], computerized tomography, and X-ray) at a tertiary center in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from January 2012 to June 2016. Sacroiliitis was diagnosed in 129 patients out of 338 over 4 years, giving an annual incidence of 28.17%, with an increase of 6% reaching 36% in 2015. Patients with sacroiliitis were older and obese which was statistically significant. There was a significant risk in the white ethnic group and female gender (P < 0.005). The incidence of sacroiliitis is increasing. MRI exceeded other radiological modalities in the diagnostic process. The results are supported by existing guidelines recommending MRI for early detection; however, other modalities are to be replaced depending on the preclinical probability.