Spondyloarthopathies
Red flags
Consider immediate referral to relevant service if
- Red flags for back pain or septic arthritis
- Features of anterior uveitis
Consider routine referral for
- Most spondyloarthropathies
- Established PsA/AS on biologic therapy - it is vital that the date the patient will be filling the last repeat on their current PBS biologic prescription is included in the referral. The patient must also have CRP and ESR tested <4 weeks prior to review. Failure to include this information risks the patient being unable to continue treatment.
For example:
- Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS)
- Psoriatic Arthritis (PsA)
- Reactive Arthritis (ReA)
Other important information for referring practitioners
Lifestyle changes
- Dietary changes and move towards healthy BMI
- Alcohol reduction and smoking cessation
- Keep active (NHMRC: moderate intensity activity for 2.5-5h/week)
Medical management
- NSAID + paracetamol +/- codeine as appropriate
- Treat associated extra-articular conditions where possible
- Consider role for physio/OT/hydrotherapy
Referral requirements
A referral may be rejected without the following information.