FREQUENCY OF ECG ABNORMALITIES IN ANKYLOSING-SPONDYLITIS COMPARED TO HEALTHY CONTROLS

Abstract

ECG from 150 patients with clinically and radiologically established ankylosing spondylitis were compared with those from a healthy age and sex matched group. The reported frequency of atrioventricular conduction defects (3-15%) was confirmed (4.6%). These and other pathological ECG changes were also found in the control group. No significant statistical difference in frequency was found. Doubt remains whether the pathological changes of the ECG can be attributed to ankylosing spondylitis.