162 Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology Osteoarthritis Arthritis also takes a noninflammatory form as osteoarthritis, a degenerative disorder of articular cartilage. Onset of osteoarthritis is characterized by progressive roughening of the normally smooth joint cartilage, with the cartilage eventually wearing away completely. The most commonly affected joints are in the hands, knees, hips, and spine, although any joint can be affected. Pain, tenderness, loss of flexibility, and stiffness are all symptoms, with the pain typically relieved by rest and joint stiffness improved by activity. Bone spurs may form around affected joints, causing a grating sound with joint motion. Diagnosis is achieved with physical examination and imaging tests. Treatments include anti- inflammatory medications and injections into the joint of cortisone or hyaluronic acid (a joint lubricant). When the condition becomes too painful, joint replacement is warranted. Check Your Understanding 1. What are the general symptoms associated with all forms of arthritis? 2. What is believed to be the cause of rheumatoid arthritis? Arthritis Arthritis is a common pathology associated with aging. It is characterized by joint inflammation accompanied by pain, stiffness, and sometimes swelling. Arthritis is not a single condition but a large family of pathologies. More than 100 different types of arthritis have been identified. Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the healthy membranes that surround synovial joints (Figure 4.39). The progression includes inflammation and thickening of the synovial membranes followed by breakdown of the joint structures over time. The result is extremely limited joint motion and, in extreme cases, complete fusing of the articulating bones. Associated symptoms include tenderness, warmth, and swelling of the joints, with stiffness that is usually worse in the mornings and after inactivity. Fatigue, fever, and weight loss may also occur. This is the most debilitating and painful form of arthritis. I t is more common in adults but occasionally occurs in children (juvenile rheumatoid arthritis). The cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, although genetics may play a role. Diagnosis is difficult in the early stages because the symptoms are like those of many other diseases. Blood tests can reveal the presence of inflammation in the body and imaging tests can help to detect progression of the disorder. There is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. Treatment may include anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, and a class of drugs called disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). These drugs can slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and save the joints and other tissues from permanent damage. Chaowalit Seeneha/Shutterstock.com Figure 4.39 This person’s hands have been disfigured by rheumatoid arthritis. Most patients take medication for the intense pain. Copyright Goodheart-Willcox Co., Inc.