Synovial hypertrophy, Baker’s cysts more common in OA vs. RA knees

Patients with osteoarthritis were more likely to show Baker’s cysts and synovial hypertrophy in knee ultrasound investigations than patients with rheumatoid arthritis, according to data presented at the American College of Rheumatology Annual Meeting.

The researchers compared the ultrasound images from a group of 99 patients with osteoarthritis (OA) with those of 18 patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Imaging was performed at baseline before treatment with biologics. The amount of synovial fluid and Doppler were measured in five positions and scored by the lead author.

Ultrasound evaluation showed significantly more synovial hypertrophy and more Baker’s cysts in the knees of patients with OA vs. those with RA, according to the researchers. Additionally, little Doppler activity, indicating increased blood flow, was found, and no differences were observed between the two groups, suggesting inflammation is an important pathological feature in OA, according to the researchers. – by Shirley Pulawski

Reference:

Ellegaard K, et al. Paper #2439. Presented at: American College of Rheumatology Annual Meeting. Nov. 14-19, 2014; Boston.

Disclosure: The authors have no relevant financial disclosures.