Der Radiologe
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The aim of this review is to evaluate the role of inflammatory spine disease in patients with chronic back pain. The contribution of imaging modalities for the diagnostic evaluation of back pain is discussed. ⋯ Bone marrow edema, which is only detectable with MRI, represents an early sign of inflammation. Therapy with TNF-alpha antagonists is based on clinical and laboratory criteria, and signs of inflammation in MRI. MRI is useful for assessment of the effectiveness of anti-inflammatory therapy.