Short Notes For Neet Disorders Of Joints

Joint Diseases and Disorders

Joint diseases or disorders are medical conditions which affect the joints in our body. Let’s take a closer look at some of the common joint diseases, their causes, symptoms, and pathogenesis.

  1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common disease of joints, caused by the wear and tear of the cartilage between the joints. It results in pain, stiffness, and swelling, and is more commonly found in the joints of the knee, spine, hands, and hip. Risk factors for developing osteoarthritis include age, gender, obesity, injury or overuse of joints, etc.

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where one’s own immune system attacks healthy cells, causing inflammation and pain in the joints, particularly in the fingers, wrists and knees. In addition to pain, stiffness and swelling, it may also cause mild fever, anaemia and fatigue.

Inflammation can be observed in small arteries and pericardium, and is often accompanied by the presence of a rheumatoid factor in the blood in cases of rheumatoid arthritis, which reacts with other types of immunoglobulins.

3. Gout

Gout or gouty arthritis is a type of metabolic disorder caused by high levels of uric acid in the body, known as hyperuricemia.

Uric acid crystals get deposited in joints, which can cause pain and inflammation and even lead to deformities.

There is acute inflammation in one joint at a time, typically located in the joints of the extremities or big toe.

4. Bursitis

Bursitis is an inflammation of the synovial bursa, a fluid-filled sac that exists between joints, muscles, and tendons for cushioning. This can result in irritation, swelling, and tenderness of the affected joints.

It may be caused by infection, autoimmune diseases, or injury. Additionally, it is often the result of overuse and excessive movement, particularly in occupational settings. Commonly affected areas are the shoulders, knees, and elbows.

5. Infectious Arthritis

Arthritis can be caused by various microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, and viruses. For example, Staphylococci and Pneumococci can damage joint cartilage through pus formation. Additionally, Tuberculosis of the joints can lead to destruction of the adjacent bones.

Some fungi and certain viruses, such as the Rubella virus, can cause joint inflammation.

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