Prevalence and Multidimensional Impact of Pain Catastrophizing in Patients with Spondyloarthritis

Background: Spondyloarthritis (SpA) is characterized by chronic inflammatory pain and functional impairment that may be influenced by maladaptive cognitive responses such as pain catastrophizing. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of pain catastrophizing and to evaluate its association with clinical, functional, and psychosocial dimensions in patients with SpA. Methods: we conducted a cross-sectional observational study including 200 patients with spondyloarthritis (SpA), diagnosed according to ASAS, and followed in the rheumatology department of Mohammed VI University Hospital in Marrakech between October 2024 and October 2025. Statistical analyses involved descriptive statistics, correlation and intergroup comparisons. Results: the median PCS was 20,4 [5–39], and high pain catastrophizing (PCS ≥ 20) was observed in 51.5 % of patients. Patients with elevated PCS scores more frequently exhibited anxiety (80 % vs. 40 %, p < 0.001), depression (67 % vs. 16 %, p < 0.001), and insomnia (46 % vs. 26 %, p =0.006) compared to those without elevated catastrophizing. SF-12 physical and mental component scores were significantly lower in the high catastrophizing pain group (37.1 vs 41.1, p < 0.001 vs 42.9 vs 45.8, p < 0.001, respectively). Pain catastrophizing showed significant correlations with anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Conclusions: Pain catastrophizing was frequently observed among patients with spondyloarthritis and was significantly associated with psychological distress and reduced quality of life. Incorporating its assessment into routine clinical evaluation may support an individualized and comprehensive approach to patient care. Categories: Rheumatology, Pain management, Psychology.