A randomized controlled trial to study the efficacy of sulfasalazine for axial disease in ankylosing spondylitis.

Sulfasalazine is effective in axial AS esp. in younger patients (< 25 years), disease duration < 4 years at the time of initiation of treatment and high disease activity (BASDAI > 7, CRP > 50 mg/L). This signifies early diagnosis and treatment is very important in management and prevention of disease progression.