Osteoarthritis (OA)

• a degenerative joint disease (DJD) that targets articular cartilage
• NOT inflammatory (ESR, CRP normal)
• Knee OA (most commonly affected joint) is the leading cause of chronic disability in the elderly
• 2nd most common joint affected is the base of the thumb
• very slow, progressive and irreversible
• oligoarticular-asymmetric or monoarticular pattern
• joint pain increases with exercise and is relieved by rest
• morning stiffness is always <20-30 min
• crepitations may be noted on joint movement
• No systemic manifestations

Major risk factors:

Female sex, genetic factors, major joint trauma, repetitive stress, and obesity

classified as primary or idiopathic OA and secondary OA

Dx

6 criteria for clinical diagnosis: (69% specific if 3 or more criteria are met)

1. age >50
2. crepitus
3. bony enlargement
4. bony tenderness