Osteoarthritis

Question 1

What is the basic pathology behind osteoarthritis?

Answer 1

Degeneration of articular hyaline cartilage (type 2), usually thinning, resulting in loss of the joint space and formation of bony spurs (osteophytes)

Question 2

List risk factors for osteoarthritis

Answer 2

Female
Obesity
Being very active/injury
Muscle weakness
Genetics
Occupation

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 investigations are used to diagnose osteoarthritis?

Answer 6

Blood tests - inflam markers normal

XRAY

Question 7

List pharmacological therapy for osteoarthritis

Answer 7

Analgesia (paracetamol)
NSAID (ibuprofen)
Pain modulation (amitryptiline, gabapentin)
Steroids (short-term)

Question 8

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. True/False?

Answer 8

True

Question 9

What are the 4 main radiological features of OA?

Answer 9

Loss of joint space
Osteophyte formation
Subchondral cysts
Sclerosis

Question 10

Outline non-pharmacological management of OA

Answer 10

Physiotherapy
Weight loss
Exercise
Joint replacement

Question 11

List the main clinical feature of OA

Answer 11

Mechanical pain (worse on activity and at end of day)