Osteoarthritis Overview and Risk Factors

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Questions and Answers

What is a hallmark feature of the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis (RA)?

Extreme bone erosion visible on X-ray

Significant joint deformity

Thickening and inflammation of the synovium (correct)

Elevated bone density levels

Which statement accurately reflects the potential effects of biological DMARDs?

They have no significant side effects.

They are safe to use with live vaccines.

They are the first-line treatment for pain management.

They can target specific immune pathways. (correct)

What is a common clinical manifestation of rheumatoid arthritis?

Rapid onset of moderate joint swelling

Unilateral joint pain

Morning stiffness lasting over 30 minutes (correct)

Extreme joint mobility without pain

In the moderate stage of rheumatoid arthritis, which of the following is observed?

Development of connective tissue in inflamed areas Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant risk factor for developing rheumatoid arthritis?

Environmental and genetic factors Signup and view all the answers

What is reflected in lab tests used to confirm rheumatoid arthritis?

Non-specific indicators like C-reactive protein (CRP) Signup and view all the answers

Which management approach is typically used for rheumatoid arthritis?

A balanced regimen of rest and exercise cycles Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes a feature of severe rheumatoid arthritis?

Extensive joint damage and significant pain Signup and view all the answers

Which cytokines play a crucial role in the pathology of rheumatoid arthritis?

Cytokines that cause systemic inflammation Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates rheumatoid arthritis from osteoarthritis?

RA is a systemic autoimmune disease Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic change observed in cartilage during osteoarthritis?

Cartilage becomes yellow and granular. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered a risk factor for developing osteoarthritis?

Greater muscle mass Signup and view all the answers

Which type of joint is primarily affected by osteoarthritis according to its definition?

Synovial joint Signup and view all the answers

What is the most beneficial first approach to managing osteoarthritis?

Conservative management Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant clinical manifestation of osteoarthritis related to joint movement?

Pain that increases with movement Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following methods is least likely to be used for evaluating osteoarthritis?

MRI scan Signup and view all the answers

What are the primary changes observed in osteoarthritis associated with bone structure?

Formation of micro-cracks and osteophytes Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following options best describes a common characteristic of joint stiffness due to osteoarthritis?

Most noticeable in the morning Signup and view all the answers

When evaluating the functional limitations caused by osteoarthritis, which of the following aspects is NOT typically assessed?

Blood pressure levels Signup and view all the answers

Which pharmacologic agent is commonly used for mild to moderate osteoarthritis pain management?

Acetaminophen Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Osteoarthritis

Progressive, degenerative disease of the joints
Most commonly affects hips, knees, hands (constantly load bearing)
May be secondary to a condition or trauma, but many cases have no single cause
Considered the most common form of arthritis
Age, obesity, injury, joint overuse are risk factors
Genetic traits, previous injuries (e.g., meniscus tears or ligament strains) also play a role

Risk Factors

Age
Obesity
Trauma (might kill more stress on the joints)
Overuse of the joint
Genetic traits (degeneration decreasing overtime, child birth, bone changes, biomechanical load is different)

Synovial Joint Structure

Synovial fluid is key for the joints in the body
Synovial fluid is important for reducing friction, supporting the nourishment of the cartilage
Cartilage is created by chondrocytes important for maintaining the cartilaginous matrix

Cartilage Osteoarthritis

Cartilage becomes yellow, dull, and granular, increasing friction between bones
Chronic inflammation of the joint

Clinical Manifestations

Pain (gradually present or uncertain) (Early changes in symptomatic OA), stiffness, and limited range of motion (especially in the morning)
Joint creaking or grinding.
Swelling in the joint
Tenderness to the touch
Difficulty with movement.
Bone spurs (outgrowths of bone that occur near the joint) or cysts

Early Changes in OA

Healthy joint: smooth, articular cartilage, which provides a cushioned surface for smooth bone movement
Later changes in OA: decrease in the thickness of the articular cartilage, increased production of synovial fluid, and development of bone spurs or cysts

Review of Hand Joints

Carpal bones form the wrist joint
Bone cyst is a hollow part of bone
Bone spur is the bump in joint.

OA Commonly Affected Joints

Joints that bear the most heavy load (e.g., knees, hips, spine)
All body weight and movements also affect the joints in the back (spine), shoulders, hips

Evaluation

History (everything has been going on in factor, joint stiffness, functional limitations, previous injuries?)
Physical Exam (palpate/observe joint involvement, assess tenderness, range of motion)
X-ray
Blood tests

Management (Conservative)

Non-pharmacological therapy
Balance rest and activity (exercise has to be similar function to avoid problems)
Medications to reduce inflammation (mild anti-inflammatory drugs or supplements)
Heat or cold application

Management (Surgical)

Medications that reduce inflammation
Joint replacement (e.g., arthroplasty)

Management (Drugs)

Cyclooxygenase inhibitors (COX inhibitors) (moderate to severe), e.g., NSAIDs, topical (if only a few joints are involved).

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Description

This quiz covers osteoarthritis, a progressive disease affecting joints, including risk factors such as age, obesity, and trauma. Learn about the structure of synovial joints and the role of cartilage in osteoarthritis. Test your understanding of this common form of arthritis and its implications.