[Congestive outbreaks of osteo-arthrosis]

Osteo-arthritis is often interspersed with congestive episodes due to inflammation of the synovial membranes, the vascular component of which is more important than the cellular component. This explains why the clinical signs of inflammation are moderate and characterized mainly by a mechanical-type formula. The mechanism of these episodes involves several factors, and osteo-cartilaginous fragments, microcrystals and perhaps immune complexes have been blamed for their occurrence. The influence of inflammation on cartilage degradation has been proved experimentally, and this is supported by some clinical findings. Treatment consists of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents, intra-articular corticosteroid injections and relief of articular overload.