Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic， progressive， inflammatory disorder that mainly affects axial skeleton. Researches of the etiology and pathogenesis of AS in the past years greatly contributed to the rapid progress in diagnosis and treatment. Meanwhile， the combination of standardized use of traditional agents and TNF alpha inhibitors has rewritten the medical history of AS. Early， adequate and regular therapy and functional exercise can inhibit inflammation， delay the radiographic progression and new bone formation immediately. Further studies are required to confirm the efficacy and safety of novel biological agents.