[Imaging modalities of rheumatoid arthritis]

Modern diagnostic techniques for rheumatoid arthritis include x-ray examination, arthro- or myelography, CT scan, scintigraphy, thermography, ultrasonography, and MRI. X-ray is the simplest and most common method for assessing the degree of joint destruction. Arthrography provides information on intra-articular pathology. CT is particularly of value in visualizing changes in the axial skeleton. Joint scintigraphy, using 99m-technetium pertechnetate, is available in evaluating the degree of synovial inflammation. Thermography has been performed for a similar purpose. Ultrasound allows a real-time, dynamic study of soft tissues in and around the joint, including tendons, synovium and articular cartilage. MRI most clearly shows various pathological conditions such as pannus, degenerated cartilage or spinal cord compression, although the examination time should be shortened.