Radiosynoviorthesis in osteoarthritis and other disorders with concomitant synovitis in comparison to rheumatoid arthritis.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of radiosynoviorthesis (RSO) in osteoarthritis and other disorders with concomitant synovitis versus rheumatoid arthritis by means of a standardized questionnaire.


METHODS
Eight-hundred and three RSO treatments were monitored in 691 patients by seven centers in three countries, using standardized questionnaires. Patients were assigned to three groups according to their age (20-40, 41-60, and 61-80 years). Additionally, the data was analyzed separately for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (group A) and those with osteoarthritis, psoriasis arthritis, pigmental villonodular synovitis, or persistent effusions after joint replacement (group B).


RESULTS
Quality of life improved in 78% of group A and 59% of group B (p < 0.01). Ameliorations of joint pain, swelling/effusion, or flexibility were found in 80% of group A and 56% of group B (p < 0.01). The response rate was similar for small- and large-sized joints in group A, but was significantly higher for large-sized joints in group B (p < 0.01). The positive effects on joint pain, swelling/effusion, or flexibility lasted longer in group A (p < 0.01). Repeated RSOs were as effective as initial RSOs. The clinical outcome was not influenced by age, gender, or transient immobilization for 48 hours after RSO.


CONCLUSIONS
Although slightly more efficient in rheumatoid arthritis, RSO represents an effective treatment option also in osteoarthritis and other disorders with concomitant synovitis.
Praxis für Nuklearmedizin, Wiesbaden, Germany. H.Rau@em.uni-frankfurt.de
Harald
H
Rau
Christian
C
Franke
Günter
G
Goretzki
Jörg
J
Spitz
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D001172:Arthritis, Rheumatoid / Q000473:pathology / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010003:Osteoarthritis / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D011788:Quality of Life; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013585:Synovitis / Q000150:complications* / Q000473:pathology / Q000532:radiotherapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome