What is erosive osteoarthritis?

Erosive osteoarthritis or inflammatory osteoarthritis is a form of osteoarthritis. Its symptoms are very similar to psoriatic or rheumatoid arthritis. The main characteristic of this kind of osteoarthritis is erosion of the cartilage of the hands. Although other bones and joints may be mildly affected, it is the hands that bear the brunt of erosive arthritis. The condition is characterized by pain, swelling and tenderness in the affected regions. There may be swelling of the joints which are close to the fingertips and the joints close to the knuckles. Other larger joints in the hands may also be affected but not often. Erosive arthritis is seen more frequently in women than in men. This condition seems to affect peri and post menopausal women more frequently than younger women. There are many factors which may cause erosive arthritis. These include hormones, metabolic disorders and autoimmune disorders. Erosive arthritis can be diagnosed by X-rays. Blood tests usually do not reveal the presence of markers associated with inflammation although there may be a slight increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate. The treatment for erosive arthritis is the same as that for other forms of arthritis. Treatment aims to relieve pain and inflammation using non steroidal anti inflammatory medications. Physiotherapy may also be highly beneficial.