[Prognosis in ankylosing spondylitis].

Based on the literature we describe the prognosis and natural history of ankylosing spondylitis. The data on mortality are controversial and it seems that only a small group of patient show a decreased survival. It is a chronic disease with most prominent features of pain and increasing stiffness during the first decade. After a course of 40 years 90% of patients have none or only mild disability. Generally quality of life is slightly reduced. Most patients remain engaged in full-time employment, but job adaptations are often unavoidable and vocational counseling seems to be worthwhile.