BONE & JOINT DISORDERS (ARTHRITIS)

 

OSTEOARTHRITIS – INVESTIGATIONS

 

Laboratory examinations include :

 

  • Blood test
    • ESR (Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate) is not increased in osteoarthritis
    • C-reactive protein : Increased level of this factor is a good predictor for progression of osteoarthritis

 

  • Serology test
    • Rheumatoid Factor is not present in OA

 

  • X-Ray Osteoarthritis is often visible on x-ray. It shows loss of joint space, bony marginal lipping and bony projections (spurs). Cyst formation is seen in more advanced cases.

OA-xray_view

  • Synovial fluid examination It is done to rule out infection. Presence of cartilage cells in synovial fluid is an indicator of OA.