Radiology in osteoarthritis
Characteristic changes of OA are:
- joint space narrowing - focal cartilage loss
- subchondral sclerosis - increased trabecular thickness
- bone cysts
- osteophytes about the joint margins - central, marginal, periosteal
- osteochondral "loose" bodies - islands of chondral metaplasia that have ossified
In the initial stages of OA, the first three features are restricted to the load-bearing part of the osteoarthritic joint. In more advanced disease all five features are present on non-weight-bearing and weight-bearing parts of the joint.
X-rays are not recommended for routine use unless the diagnosis is in doubt.
Reference:
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