The new ASAS classification criteria for axial and peripheral spondyloarthritis: Promises and pitfalls

Spondyloarthritis (SpA), if not diagnosed and treated early, often leads to significant morbidity. Unfortunately, diagnosis and implementation of therapy are frequently delayed, in many cases by years. The Assessment of SpondyloArthritis International Society has recently developed new criteria for classification of both axial and peripheral SpA. The new criteria were formulated with the aim of enhancing design of clinical trials, and ultimately leading to earlier and more effective diagnosis and treatment in the clinical setting. This paper reviews the process of the development of both sets of criteria, and discusses their potential advantages and disadvantages.