Lecture 11.2: Clinical Pathology of Joints

Question 1

What are Diarthroses Joints?

Answer 1

• Freely moveable joints

* E.g. Shoulder, Knee

Question 2

What are Amphiarthroses Joints?

Answer 2

• Slightly moveable joints

* E.g. IV discs, Pubic Symphysis

Question 3

What are Synarthroses Joints?

Answer 3

• Joints with little or no movement

* E.g. Cranial Sutures, Teeth in Sockets

Question 4

What is Synovial Fluid made of? (6)

Answer 4

• Ultrafiltrate of Blood Plasma
• Hyaluronic Acid
• Collagenases
• Glycoproteins
• Lubricin
• Proteinases

Question 5

What are the 3 Stages of Osteoarthritis?

Answer 5

Stage 1:
• Excessive proteolytic breakdown cartilage matrix

Stage 2:
• Fibrillation and erosion of cartilage
• Release of breakdown products into synovial fluid

Stage 3:
• Uptake of products by synovial cells
• Inflammatory reaction and release of pro-inflammatory cytokines

Question 6

Radiographic Features of Osteoarthritis (5)

Answer 6

• Loss of Joint Space
• Osteophytes
• Subchondral Sclerosis
• Subchondral Cysts
• Deformity