Continuing Medical Education: Understanding Osteoarthritis.
Edited By: Gregory C. Gardner, M.D.
Last updated Friday, January 07, 2005
Biology of articular cartilageWhat is the joint anatomy in osteoarthritis? - Articulating surfaces covered by hyaline cartilage
- Joint enclosed by fibrous capsule
- Synovial membrane lines capsule and provides lubricating joint fluid and nutrients for the articular cartilage
What is articular cartilage, with respect to osteoarthritis? Chondrocytes produce type II collagen, proteoglycan matrix, and
enzymes such as collagenase and hyaluronidase that repair and remodel
the cartilage.
Type II collagen produces the tensile strength and structure of the
cartilage. The collagen bundles are arranged at 90 degrees to the joint
surface.
The proteoglycan matrix are composed of huge macromolecular
structures are negatively charged and are extensively hydrated and when
a load is applied to the cartilage, water is displaced and is reimbibed
when the load is removed helping the cartilage to maintain shape and
help cushion the load. How does cartilage change in osteoarthritis?
Early changes include an increase in water content of the cartilage,
changes in the quality and quantity of the proteoglycan matrix, and
increased collage extractability.
Later changes include fibrillation of the cartilage, loss of
cartilage substance, osteophyte formation, and increased bone density
below the area of cartilage loss.
Chondrocytes actually work overtime initially to try to keep up with
repair demands but eventually fall behind. Cytokines such as IL-1 may
play a role in controlling the activity of degradative enzymes. Surgery for arthritis at the University of Washington If you are interested in making an appointment to discuss this procedure, you can request an appointment using our online referrals website. To request a referral online, please click here. You can also call 206-598-4288 (outside the Seattle area: 800-440-3280) to make an appointment.
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