Is there a preferred method for scoring activity of the spine by magnetic resonance imaging in ankylosing spondylitis?

J Rheumatol. 2007 Apr;34(4):871-3.

Abstract

This report summarizes the discussion during a module update at OMERACT 8 on scoring methods for activity in the spine on magnetic resonance imaging. The conclusion was that the 3 available scoring methods are all very good with respect to discrimination and feasibility: the Ankylosing Spondylitis spine MRI score for activity (ASspiMRI-a), the Berlin method (a modification of the ASspiMRI-a), and the Spondyloarthritis Research Consortium of Canada Magnetic Resonance Imaging Index for Assessment of Spinal Inflammation in AS (SPARCC). All 3 methods were judged to be similar with respect to responsiveness and discrimination, although the differences in between-reader intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were judged to be relevant (the SPARCC method provided consistently higher ICC). The Berlin and SPARCC methods were preferred most frequently. The development of a new method combining the best elements of all methods is an additional possibility.

Publication types

  • Consensus Development Conference

MeSH terms

  • Contrast Media
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Observer Variation
  • Osteitis / classification
  • Osteitis / diagnosis
  • Osteitis / pathology*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sacroiliac Joint / pathology*
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Severity of Illness Index*
  • Spondylitis, Ankylosing / classification
  • Spondylitis, Ankylosing / diagnosis
  • Spondylitis, Ankylosing / pathology*

Substances

  • Contrast Media