[Periarticular and generalized osteoporosis in rheumatoid arthritis].
Patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) develop both periarticular and generalized osteoporosis. Periarticular osteopenia in appendicular bones occurs early in the course of RA and is one of the earliest radiological signs of RA. Periarticular osteoporosis might be mediated through an increased productions of inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandins by synovium and bone marrow. Generalized osteoporosis is also common in RA and leads to increased risk of fractures. Generalized osteoporosis considered to be multifactorial. Corticosteroids and menopausal state are important risk factors for lumbar osteoporosis. Rheumatoid activity and reduced physical activity are also important determinants.
Sohen
S
S
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rheumatology, Nara Hospital, Kinki University School of Medicine.