Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in axial spondyloarthritis has an increasing importance, especially in patients without or with equivocal changes in radiography. However, radiologists are often uncomfortable with imaging of rheumatic diseases and reports consequently sometimes confusing. Therefore, rheumatologists are increasingly confronted with the need to receive their own impression of radiography and MR images.

The aim of this talk is to give basic ideas on interpretation of MRI sequences with a focus on the sacroiliac joints in a case-based manner. The participants will learn to easily differentiate common MR sequences and to decide, which information can be derived of an image. They will discover to detect common differential diagnoses (such as condensing osteitis, osteoarthritis and anatomical variants) and to differentiate them from inflammatory changes. In a comparison of radiography, MRI and computed tomography they will experience the strengths and weaknesses of the different imaging methods and learn to decide, in which patients further imaging – additional to MRI – may be useful.

This talk will also provide a perspective of future innovations in MRI and what additional advantages might go along with them. In the end, the experience might encourage an intensified communication between rheumatologists and radiologists in daily practice with a better understanding of the thinking and needs within the respective medical field.