[Arthrosis of the hands]

Area of Science:

• Rheumatology
• Genetics
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Hand arthrosis is considered a genetically determined condition, with gene localization currently unknown.
• Etiological factors include age, female predominance, hormonal influences, obesity, and mechanical stress.
• The incidence rate is reported as 100 per 100,000 persons per year.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline established criteria for identifying patients with hand arthrosis.
• To describe methods for patient selection and evaluation in clinical trials.
• To detail pain assessment measures for evaluating treatment efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Utilizes American College of Rheumatology (ACR) clinical criteria for patient identification.
• Employs radiological scores and specific clinical criteria (ACR, Lequesne and Maheu) for selection.
• Pain is primarily measured using a visual analog scale (VAS), with additional assessments including Maheu's weekly assessment, analgesic consumption, Drieser's algofunctional index, and AUSCAN.

Main Results:

• Established clinical and radiological criteria enable reliable patient identification.
• A visual analog scale is the principal method for assessing pain relief in clinical trials.
• Multiple validated tools exist for comprehensive pain and functional assessment.

Conclusions:

• Hand arthrosis has a significant genetic component, necessitating further research into gene localization.
• Standardized criteria and validated outcome measures are crucial for effective clinical trial design and patient evaluation.
• A multifactorial approach to understanding and managing hand arthrosis is essential.