What is Iliitis?
Iliitis is an inflammatory disease of the ilium and surrounding soft tissues that may be caused by infections, immune disorders, or trauma. It primarily manifests as pain and limited mobility in the lumbar and hip regions. Based on its etiology, it can be classified as infectious iliitis, rheumatic iliitis, or traumatic iliitis, among others. Diagnosis and treatment plans are formulated in combination with symptoms and imaging studies.
1) Infectious Factors: Infectious iliitis is usually caused by bacteria invading the ilium through the bloodstream or direct spread, with Staphylococcus aureus being a common causative agent. It mainly presents as local redness, swelling, heat, pain, and even limited mobility. Such infections are more common in immunocompromised patients (e.g., diabetics or those using immunosuppressants long-term). Timely medical attention is required for infectious iliitis, with blood or bone tissue cultures conducted to identify the causative bacteria. Antibiotic treatment, such as cephalosporins or penicillin combined with vancomycin, is typically prescribed. Surgical drainage may be necessary if an abscess forms.
2) Autoimmune Diseases: Rheumatic diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis or rheumatoid arthritis may induce iliitis. Due to abnormal immune system attacks on self-tissue, inflammation and pain occur in the joints. This type of iliitis may be accompanied by morning stiffness, general fatigue, or joint discomfort in other areas. Rheumatism-related iliitis usually requires anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., NSAIDs), with immunosuppressants (e.g., methotrexate) or biologics (e.g., TNF-α inhibitors) used in severe cases, under the guidance of a professional physician for standardized treatment.
3) Traumatic Iliitis: Some cases of iliitis may result from trauma such as bone contusions, prolonged improper posture, or improper force application. Long-term local compression or repetitive strain may also induce chronic inflammation. If caused by mechanical factors, activity should be controlled to avoid further injury to the affected area. Local cold compresses can be used to relieve acute pain, followed by appropriate physiotherapy (e.g., hot compresses, ultrasound therapy), combined with painkillers (e.g., ibuprofen) to facilitate recovery.
The main manifestation of iliitis is pain, especially in the lumbar or hip joint region. Pain in patients with infectious iliitis may be accompanied by fever and systemic symptoms, while pain caused by immune disorders is usually chronic. Imaging studies are crucial for diagnosing iliitis. X-rays can detect bone changes, while MRI and ultrasound can further assess the extent and severity of the lesion. Blood tests (e.g., C-reactive protein, erythrocyte sedimentation rate) help evaluate the degree of inflammation.
To avoid the occurrence or recurrence of iliitis, good posture should be maintained in daily life, and overexertion should be avoided. Strengthening muscle exercises helps improve hip stability, thereby protecting the ilium. Maintaining a healthy immune system is equally important, which can be achieved through a balanced diet, adequate nutrition (e.g., vitamin D, calcium), and proper aerobic exercise. For individuals with underlying conditions (e.g., diabetes or rheumatic diseases), regular health check-ups and disease management are necessary. If symptoms are severe or persistent, seek medical attention promptly for a professional diagnosis to determine the specific cause and receive targeted treatment.
