Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 13, 2026

06:31
Erosion Identification in Metacarpophalangeal Joints in Rheumatoid Arthritis using High-Resolution Peripheral Quantitative Computed Tomography
Published on: October 6, 2023
[Degenerative changes in humeroradial and radiocarpal joints.]
1Anatomický ústav Lékarské fakulty KU, Plzen.
Summary
This study investigated the link between elbow and wrist joint function and degenerative changes. Findings reveal how the arthritic process develops in these joints, impacting manual activities.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics and Sports Medicine
- Rheumatology
- Anatomy
Context:
- Manual activities depend on the harmonious function of the elbow and wrist musculoarticular system.
- Degenerative changes in these joints can impact functional capabilities.
- Understanding these relationships is crucial for maintaining dexterity and preventing joint disease.
Purpose:
- To investigate the functional relationship between the elbow and wrist joints.
- To determine if this relationship influences the development of degenerative joint changes.
- To analyze the arthritic process, articular cartilage, synovial membrane, and connective tissue plate in relation to joint degeneration.
Summary:
- Examined 137 humeroradial and 137 radiocarpal joints from human necroptic material (ages 51-90).
- Described the development and location of the arthritic process on the articular surface.
- Assessed connective tissue plate formation in radiocarpal joints alongside degenerative changes in articular cartilage.
- Evaluated synovial membrane characteristics, including synovial folds and villi, in relation to joint health.
Impact:
- Provides insights into the pathogenesis of degenerative joint diseases affecting the elbow and wrist.
- Highlights the importance of joint function harmony for manual activity.
- Contributes to understanding age-related changes in articular and synovial tissues.
Related Concept Videos
Degenerative Disc Disease ll: Pathophysiology
The symptoms of degenerative disc disease arise from a combination of mechanical compression, vascular compromise, and biochemical inflammation, which together disrupt nerve function and produce pain.Mechanical CompressionDisc degeneration reduces height and elasticity, predisposing to herniation of the nucleus pulposus, a major cause of radicular pain. Herniations may be protrusion (bulging with intact annulus), extrusion (nucleus extends beyond disc but remains connected), or sequestration...
Degenerative Disc Disease I: Introduction
Degenerative disc disease is a chronic condition in which intervertebral discs gradually lose structure and function. It is not infectious or autoimmune; rather, it results from age-related biochemical and mechanical changes, influenced by genetic, metabolic, and environmental factors.Structure and Function of DiscsThe spine contains 23 intervertebral discs that absorb load, distribute forces, maintain spacing, and allow flexibility. Each disc consists of a nucleus pulposus, a gel-like core...
Bones of the Upper Limb: Radius
The radius is longer of the two bones that make up the human antebrachium or forearm. At the proximal end, the radius articulates with the capitulum of the humerus and the radial notch of the ulna to form the elbow joint. At the distal end, the radius articulates with the ulna via the ulnar notch, forming the distal radioulnar joint. Distally, the radius also attaches to the carpal wrist bones (scaphoid and lunate) to form the radiocarpal joint.
The radius has a nail-shaped head, and a short...
The radius has a nail-shaped head, and a short...
Bones of the Upper Limb: Ulna
The ulna and radius are parallel bones of the antebrachium or the forearm. The ulna lies medially and consists of a bony tip called the olecranon process at its proximal end. This hook-like projection articulates with the olecranon fossa of the humerus and forms the "hinged" ulnohumeral part of the elbow joint. This joint facilitates forearm extension and flexion while preventing its hyperextension. Similarly, the coronoid process, another bony projection on the proximal/anterior side of the...
Bones of the Upper Limb: Humerus
The upper limb consists of the arm, forearm, wrist, and hand bones. The humerus is the single bone of the upper arm region. Proximally, it has a large, spherical, smooth head that articulates with the glenoid cavity of the scapula to form the glenohumeral or shoulder joint. The margin of the head is the anatomical neck, a residual epiphyseal plate. Laterally it extends to form bony projections called the greater tubercle and the lesser tubercle. Next to the tubercles is the surgical neck, a...
Functional Classification of Joints
Functional Classification of Joints
The functional classification of joints is determined by the amount of mobility between the adjacent bones. Joints are functionally classified as a synarthrosis or immobile joint, an amphiarthrosis or slightly moveable joint, or as a diarthrosis, a freely moveable joint. Fibrous and cartilaginous joints can be functionally classified as either synarthroses or amphiarthroses, whereas all synovial joints are classified as diarthroses.
Synarthrosis
An immobile...
The functional classification of joints is determined by the amount of mobility between the adjacent bones. Joints are functionally classified as a synarthrosis or immobile joint, an amphiarthrosis or slightly moveable joint, or as a diarthrosis, a freely moveable joint. Fibrous and cartilaginous joints can be functionally classified as either synarthroses or amphiarthroses, whereas all synovial joints are classified as diarthroses.
Synarthrosis
An immobile...
