Superior effectiveness and comparable drug retention of anti-TNF therapy versus anti-IL-17A in ankylosing spondylitis after first anti-TNF failure: A propensity score-matched analysis from the Czech ATTRA Registry
Abstract format and assignment number: Poster POS0116
Date: Thursday, 12 June, 09:42 – 09:48
Presenting author: J Závada (Czech Republic)
Following first anti-TNF failure in ankylosing spondylitis, switching to another anti-TNF agent showed better effectiveness—based on ASDAS, BASDAI, CRP, and pain scores—compared to IL-17A inhibitors, with similar drug retention. These findings support TNF cycling over switching mechanism in this setting.
Inhibition of new bone formation by secukinumab visualized by Na[18F]F PET/CT in axial spondyloarthritis
Abstract format and assignment number: Poster POS0130
Date: Thursday, 12 June, 15:27 – 15:33
Presenting author: S Groothuizen (Netherlands)
This study used Na[18F]F PET/CT to assess new bone formation (NBF) in axSpA patients treated with secukinumab. A quantitative reduction in NBF was observed after 12 weeks. Responders had higher baseline uptake and showed a greater decrease in facet and costovertebral joints. These findings suggest early inhibition of NBF by secukinumab and support Na[18F]F PET/CT for treatment monitoring.
An individualized exercise program on cardiorespiratory fitness, trunk strength and mobility leads to significant better outcomes in patients with axSpA
Abstract format and assignment number: Poster POS0255
Date: Friday, 13 June, 09:36 – 09:42
Presenting author: P Carron (Belgium)
This study assessed an eight-week individualised exercise program in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA), combining endurance and trunk-specific training. Significant improvements were observed in trunk strength, mobility, cardiorespiratory fitness, and chest expansion. The findings emphasise the clinical value of tailored exercise as part of axSpA management. Such interventions may help reduce physical limitations and improve overall function, supporting their integration into routine care alongside pharmacological treatment.
Comparative efficacy of biologics and targeted synthetic therapies in patients with non-radiographic axial spondyloarthritis: A network meta-analysis
Abstract format and assignment number: Poster POS0259
Date: Friday, 13 June, 10:00 – 10:06
Presenting author: H Imran (USA)
This network meta-analysis highlighted that certolizumab and golimumab had the highest efficacy in achieving ASAS40 responses in biologic-naïve nr-axSpA patients with inadequate NSAID response. Adalimumab and upadacitinib were also effective alternatives. These findings reinforce the role of TNF inhibitors in the first-line biologic strategy and emphasise the value of tailoring treatment choices in nr-axSpA based on comparative effectiveness.
Gender differences in first bDMARDs initiation and persistence in spondyloarthritis: An 18-year follow-up study
Abstract format and assignment number: Poster POS0890
Date: Thursday, 12 June, 14:45 – 15:45
Presenting author: DM Moldovan (Romania/Spain)
In this 18-year follow-up study of spondyloarthritis patients, no significant gender differences were found in the timing of first bDMARD initiation. However, men showed significantly longer persistence on the first bDMARD. Factors associated with early initiation varied by gender and HLA-B27 status, indicating different treatment decision pathways. These findings might highlight the importance of a gender-sensitive approach in SpA management.
Bayram Farisogullari
Bayram Farisogullari is a rheumatologist in Turkey and clinical research fellow at University College London in the UK. His research interests include remission and imaging in axSpA, fatigue in musculoskeletal diseases, and outcome measurement in myositis. He is a full member of the ASAS (Assessment of SpondyloArthritis international Society) and BRITSpA (The British Society for Spondyloarthritis). Bayram is a member of the EMEUNET Social Media Sub-committee.