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Researchers find MRI techniques may detect early osteoarthritis

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Researchers from the New York University Langone Medical Center have found that advanced MRI techniques could be used to detect subtle changes in joint cartilage microstructure and provide physicians with a diagnostic tool for locating key markers of early osteoarthritis.

Using these techniques during patient exams to facilitate earlier identification of osteoarthritis (OA) can shift the focus of management from eventual joint reconstruction to long-term preservation, according to the review article — published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons.

“Imaging technology is now sensitive and powerful enough to enable detection of subtle changes in the intricate balance of water, chondrocytes and the collagen fibers and protein molecules that make up our joint cartilage — which we know can point to future [OA],” lead author Laith Jazrawi, MD, stated in a press release from the NYU Langone Medical Center.

Damaged cartilage shows distinct changes in the concentration of water and collagen molecules, the micro- and macrostructure of collagen and glycosoaminoglycan concentrations.

Advances in biochemical-based MRI make detecting early OA possible, the researchers noted, through the use of techniques like T2 mapping, T1rho, sodium MRI and delayed gadolinium-enhanced MRI of cartilage. These techniques can help determine morphologic cartilaginous changes earlier than conventional MRI might, as they make use of detectable changes in the complex biochemical composition of articular cartilage.

The authors noted that these techniques have yet to be used to any significant extent in the clinical field, but added that the potential for their clinical use is evident.

“Although the newer modalities have been used primarily in the research setting, their ability to assess the microstructure of articular cartilage may eventually enhance the diagnosis and management of osteoarthritis,” they wrote.

Reference:

• Jazrawi LM, Alaia MJ, Chang G, et al. Advances in magnetic resonance imaging of articular cartilage. J Am Acad Orthop Surg. 2011;19:420-429.

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