Radiologic markers of osteoarthritis progression

Curr Opin Rheumatol. 2009 Mar;21(2):110-7. doi: 10.1097/BOR.0b013e3283235add.

Abstract

Purpose of review: To review radiographic and MRI developments in measuring osteoarthritis progression in the tibiofemoral compartment of the knee.

Recent findings: Standardized techniques for measuring joint space width in the medial tibiofemoral compartment, using standardized radiographic protocols, have become accepted for quantifying changes in tibiofemoral in knee osteoarthritis. In addition, there is a significant body of supporting data on the longitudinal change in MRI-derived cartilage morphology (thickness, volume) as an end point to reflect osteoarthritis progression/cartilage loss.

Summary: This review appraises the current methods of measurement of osteoarthritis progression and limitations with regards their interpretation and further development.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cartilage, Articular / diagnostic imaging
  • Cartilage, Articular / pathology
  • Clinical Protocols
  • Humans
  • Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional
  • Knee Joint / diagnostic imaging
  • Knee Joint / pathology
  • Longitudinal Studies
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / statistics & numerical data
  • Osteoarthritis, Knee / diagnostic imaging*
  • Osteoarthritis, Knee / pathology
  • Radiography