For the first time at a PANLAR Congress, axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) took center stage in a joint educational initiative led by two major organizations: SPARTAN (Spondyloarthritis Research and Treatment Network) and PANLAR. Held as a pre-congress event at PANLAR 2025, this course marked a significant milestone in bridging knowledge and practice to address one of the region’s biggest challenges: the diagnostic delay in axSpA.
“This partnership brings together SPARTAN’s technical expertise and PANLAR’s deep understanding of the Latin American context,” explained Dr. Rodrigo Salinas, one of the event's organizers.
A Common Cause: Reducing Diagnostic Delays
The course was built around a clear objective: shortening the diagnostic delay, which in many parts of Latin America still exceeds five years from the onset of symptoms.
“Diagnostic delay remains the biggest barrier to improving outcomes in axSpA,” said Dr. Mohamad Bittar. “We designed the course to provide practical, context-aware tools that help healthcare professionals recognize and refer patients earlier.”
Key topics included:
- Updated referral strategies were developed by SPARTAN.
- The use of MRI to diagnose early disease.
- Data from the ESPALDA registry offers real-world insights into regional barriers.
- Interactive case discussions, with a focus on early recognition and female presentations.
Empowering the First Point of Contact
A major focus of the course was engaging non-rheumatology providers. “Primary care doctors, orthopedists, physiatrists, and physical therapists are often the first to see patients with back pain,” Dr. Salinas emphasized. “If they don’t suspect axSpA, the diagnosis can be delayed for years.”
To address this, the course provided simplified algorithms, clinical tips, and educational materials to strengthen the role of frontline providers.
More Than a Course: A Lasting Alliance
The impact was immediate. Participation and feedback were overwhelmingly positive, and SPARTAN and PANLAR are committed to expanding the collaboration. “We don’t want this to be a one-time effort,” said Dr. Bittar. “We’re planning future courses, joint publications, and tools adapted to local needs.”
This course was not only a new addition to PANLAR’s scientific program—it laid the foundation for a strategic alliance with regional and potentially global impact.
“We are building a collaborative network that can transform the care of axial spondyloarthritis throughout the Americas,” both organizers concluded.
Links https://spartangroup.org/spartan-panlar-axspa-pre-congress-educational-course/
Editorial team GRP
