The diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis in children can be confirmed on the basis of medical history, clinical manifestations, physical examination, laboratory tests, and imaging tests.
1. Medical history: history of autoimmune disease, systemic disease, etc.; relatives of patients with this disease.
2. Clinical manifestations: pain in the lower back and joints.
3. Physical examination: limited movement of lumbar vertebrae in three directions, limited thoracic expansion, and scoliosis.
4. Laboratory examination: some patients may have mildly elevated white blood cell count and platelet count, increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate and elevated C-reactive protein.
5. Imaging: X-rays show sacroiliac arthritis; magnetic resonance imaging of the joints may show bone marrow edema and fat deposits.
If children are suspected of having ankylosing spondylitis, it is recommended that they go to the hospital in time for a clear diagnosis and timely treatment under the guidance of the doctor.