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The initial pathological change to occur in osteoarthritis is: Select one: a. Er

ID: 122849 • Letter: T

Question

The initial pathological change to occur in osteoarthritis is:

Select one:

a. Erosion of cartilage in major weight bearing joints

b. Leakage of synovial fluid into the joint cavity of major weight bearing joints

c. Breakdown of fibrocartilage to expose the subchondral bone plate

d. Break down of cartilage cells in major weight bearing joints

The main risk factors associated with osteoarthritis are:

Select one:

a. Hypertension and high blood fats

b. Poor diet and obesity

c. Tobacco smoking and risky alcohol consumption

d. Physical inactivity and obesity

Explanation / Answer

1. ANS: d. Break down of cartilage cells in major weight bearing joints.

Explanation: The etiopathogenesis of osteoarthritis has been divided into 3 stages.

Stage 1: In this the proteolytic breakdown of the cartilage matrix occurs. Chondrocyte metabolism is affected, leading to an increased production of enzymes, which includes metalloproteinases (Ex: collagenase, stromelysin) that destroy the cartilage matrix.

Stage 2: It involves the fibrillation and erosion of the cartilage surface, with a subsequent release of proteoglycan and collagen fragments into the synovial fluid.

Stage 3: The breakdown products of cartilage induce a chronic inflammatory response in the synovium. Synovial macrophage production of metalloproteinases, as well as cytokines such as interleukin (IL) 1, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, occurs. These can diffuse back into the cartilage and directly destroy tissue or stimulate chondrocytes to produce more metalloproteinases.

2. ANS: d. Physical inactivity and obesity

Explanation: Carrying extra body weight contributes to osteoarthritis in several ways, and the more you weigh the greater your risk. Increased weight puts added stress on weight-bearing joints, such as your hips and knees. In addition, fat tissue produces proteins that may cause harmful inflammation in and around your joints.

The main risk factors for osteoarthritis:

Non-modifiable risk factors are age, gender and genetics.

Modifiable risk factors are overweight and obesity, joint Injuries, infection and occupation.