Periarticular bone changes in rheumatoid arthritis: pathophysiological implications and clinical utility

Abstract

Both of the studies have exploited the evidence that the RA inflammatory process produces adverse effects on both local articular as well as systemic bone remodelling.9^–13 The skeletal changes can be segregated into distinct patterns on the basis of anatomic site and distribution. These include focal marginal joint erosions (the radiographic hallmark of RA), subchondral bone erosions, periarticular osteoporosis and systemic osteoporosis. These skeletal changes are associated with net bone loss and in all instances are reflective of an imbalance in the activities of the cells that mediate bone resorption and formation.