What causes arthritis?

What causes arthritis? and How do I know if I have it?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

Hello - thanks for asking your question.

Arthritis refers to inflammation of the joints. The inflammation can affect any of the important structures inside a joint, including the joint lining (synovium), bones, cartilage, and supporting tissues. Common symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, and swelling of the joint. The condition may be confined to only one joint or may affect numerous joints throughout the body. Arthritis is a common problem among adults.

There are many different possible causes of arthritis, although some are much more common than others. The underlying cause of arthritis largely determines the course of the condition: some types of arthritis respond well to treatment and resolve without any lingering effects, whereas other types of arthritis are more difficult to control and can be disabling.

A wide variety of factors can cause arthritis.  This can include injury, infectious arthritis (gonococcal arthritis, lyme disease), gout, osteoarthritis, infection, or rheumatoid arthritis.  

In addition to a history and physical, routine lab tests include complete blood count (CBC), liver function tests, and kidney function tests.  More specialized testing includes markers of inflammation (such as C reactive protein, or sedimentation rate), or measuring antibody levels.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Thanks,
Kevin, M.D.

Bibliography:
Pinals.  Patient information: What is arthritis?  UptoDate, 2003.