A client with Ankylosing Spondylitis asks the nurse about treatment options.
What should the nurse include in the response?

Choice A rationale:

Environmental factors, such as bacterial infections, are the primary cause of Ankylosing Spondylitis.

Rationale: Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS) is believed to have a multifactorial etiology, and while genetics play a significant role (particularly the HLA-B27 gene), environmental factors, such as bacterial infections, have been implicated in triggering the condition.

Certain bacteria, such as Klebsiella pneumoniae, have been associated with AS, and their presence may exacerbate inflammation in genetically predisposed individuals.

This statement accurately reflects the current understanding of AS's etiology.

Choice B rationale:

"Ankylosing Spondylitis predominantly affects females." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is more common in males than in females.

It has a male-to-female ratio of approximately 3:1.

Therefore, it predominantly affects males, not females.

Choice C rationale:

"The HLA-B27 gene is not associated with an increased risk of Ankylosing Spondylitis." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.

The HLA-B27 gene is strongly associated with an increased risk of Ankylosing Spondylitis.

In fact, it is one of the most significant genetic risk factors for the development of AS.

Over 90% of individuals with AS are HLA-B27 positive.

Choice D rationale:

"Symptoms of Ankylosing Spondylitis typically manifest in childhood." Rationale: This statement is incorrect.

Ankylosing Spondylitis symptoms typically do not manifest in childhood.

The onset of AS symptoms usually occurs in late adolescence or early adulthood, typically between the ages of 17 and 45.

It is rare for AS symptoms to appear in childhood.

Choice A rationale:

"Treatment typically involves surgical joint replacement." Rationale: This statement is not accurate.

While joint replacement surgery may be considered in severe cases of Ankylosing Spondylitis when joint damage is extensive, it is not a typical or first-line treatment option.

Other conservative treatments are usually attempted before considering surgery.

Choice B rationale:

"Physical therapy and exercise are crucial components of managing Ankylosing Spondylitis." Rationale: This statement is correct.

Physical therapy and exercise play a crucial role in managing Ankylosing Spondylitis.

They help improve flexibility, maintain range of motion, and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, which can reduce pain and disability.

Choice C rationale:

"There are no effective treatments available for Ankylosing Spondylitis." Rationale: This statement is not accurate.

There are several effective treatments available for Ankylosing Spondylitis, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biologic medications, and physical therapy.

Choice D rationale:

"Ankylosing Spondylitis is primarily managed with antibiotics." Rationale: This statement is not accurate.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is not primarily managed with antibiotics.

While bacterial infections may be associated with AS in some cases, the mainstay of treatment is focused on controlling inflammation and managing symptoms with medications and lifestyle interventions.