[Destructive non-infectious spondyloarthropathy in chronic renal insufficiency].

The aetiology of destructive non-infectious spondylo-arthropathy has not been completely elucidated. Deposition of various crystals and of amyloid (beta-2-microglobulin) is a possible cause of this condition which has not been considered previously. The appearances of destructive non-infectious spondylo-arthropathy are illustrated by seven patients with renal insufficiency and on chronic haemodialysis; these were examined by conventional radiographs and by CT. It is possible to distinguish between the complete condition (five patients) and an early form (two patients). The differential diagnosis of the changes in the vertebral end-plates are discussed with reference to three further patients with chronic renal disease and on dialysis.