Tests for Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, commonly referred to as degenerative joint disease, is arthritis of the joints. Osteoarthritis occurs when there is a degeneration of the cartilage. Osteoarthritis may be found in only one joint or multiple joints. Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, there are treatments available that can help manage the disease.

Diagnosis

• Diagnosis is made using imaging and laboratory testing such as a blood culture, arthrocentesis (fluid analysis) or arthroscopy (surgical viewing of the joint).

Imaging

• Radiography (x-rays) can determine whether cartilage between the joints has deteriorated. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows the bone and the soft tissue surrounding the joint to be viewed for abnormalities.

Arthrocentesis

• Arthrocentesis requires a needle insertion within the joint space; fluid is then drawn from the joint space and tested for inflammation.

Arthroscopy

• Arthroscopy is used to view the inside of the joint directly. If damage to the joint space is observed, surgical repair can be done at the same time as the arthroscopy.

Blood Testing

• Blood cultures cannot determine the presence of osteoarthritis but can rule out other forms of arthritis.