Osteoarthritis

Question 1

What is the basic pathology behind osteoarthritis?

Answer 1

Change in composition of articular cartilage, usually thinning, resulting in loss of the joint space

Question 2

List risk factors for osteoarthritis

Answer 2

Female
Obesity
Being very active/injury
Muscle weakness
Genetics

Question 3

What are Heberden’s nodes?

Answer 3

Bony enlargements at distal interphalangeal joints

Question 4

What are Bouchard’s nodes?

Answer 4

Bony enlargements at proximal interphalangeal joints

Question 5

What consequences of osteoarthritis may occur in the knee?

Answer 5

Baker's cyst
Genu varus/vulgas deformities
Effusions
Crepitus
Restricted movement

Question 6

Which imaging modality is used to diagnose osteoarthritis?

Answer 6

XRAY

Question 7

List pharmacological therapy for osteoarthritis

Answer 7

Analgesia (paracetamol)
NSAID (ibuprofen)
Pain modulation (amitryptiline)
Steroids