Which of the following pathological conditions results from the deterioration of cartilage between joints and then bone-on-bone contact?
Group of answer choices
A steoarthritis
B steoporosis
C steomyelitis
D Kyphosis
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A. osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage, which normally cushions the joints, deteriorates over time. Cartilage acts as a protective barrier between the bones in a joint, allowing for smooth and pain-free movement. As osteoarthritis progresses, the cartilage breaks down, and the bones begin to rub directly against each other. This friction can cause pain, swelling, decreased range of motion, and stiffness in the affected joint.
Osteoarthritis typically affects the weight-bearing joints, such as the knees, hips, and spine, but it can also impact the hands and other joints. The deterioration of cartilage and the subsequent bone-on-bone contact can lead to the formation of bone spurs, which can further irritate the joint and exacerbate pain.
Risk factors for osteoarthritis include aging, joint injury, genetic predisposition, obesity, and repetitive stress on the joints. The condition is more common in older adults, but it can also occur in younger individuals who have experienced joint trauma or overuse.
There is no cure for osteoarthritis, but treatments focus on managing symptoms. These may include lifestyle changes (such as weight management and exercise), medications for pain relief, physical therapy to improve joint function, and in more severe cases, surgical options like joint replacement.
The other options listed—osteoporosis, osteomyelitis, and kyphosis—are different conditions that do not primarily result from the breakdown of cartilage. Osteoporosis involves bone loss, osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone, and kyphosis is a curvature of the spine.