Current concepts in equine degenerative joint disease.
Abstract: Current concepts of pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of equine degenerative joint disease are presented on the basis of recently acquired experimental and clinical knowledge. A number of concepts of pathogenesis need modification and the rationale of some of the newer treatments requires definition. Synovitis and other soft tissue changes are important components of the pathogenesis in addition to direct trauma to the articular cartilage. Loss of glycosaminoglycans constitutes an important biochemical "lesion" in the articular cartilage, making it weak and susceptible to trauma. Recognition of these early changes and appropriate treatment of them are important. Treatment methods include physical therapy, use of anti-inflammatory drugs, joint lavage, sodium hyaluronate, and synovectomy. When there are cartilage and bony changes, the use of articular cartilage curettage, osteophyte removal, radiation therapy, and surgical arthrodesis remain appropriate in some cases. Studies continue to develop agents capable of promoting the synthesis of the important biochemical components of the articular cartilage and its subsequent healing.
Publication Date: 1982-02-01 PubMed ID: 7035425
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Summary
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The researchers focused on recent developments in understanding and treating equine degenerative joint disease by taking into account new experimental and clinical knowledge. The study suggests modifications to the current understanding of disease origin, clarifies new treatment options, highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment, and signals the ongoing research to develop medical agents that can promote healing in the joint cartilage.
Concept of Pathogenesis
- The study asserts that beyond the directly inflicted trauma on the articular cartilage, synovitis and other soft-tissue changes also play a vital role in the development of degenerative joint disease. It requires a change in the existing understanding of the cause of the disease.
Importance of Biochemical Changes
- The paper points out that the loss of glycosaminoglycans, a significant biochemical component of the joint cartilage, contributes significantly to the weakening of the cartilage and makes it more susceptible to damage. Detecting and addressing these biochemical changes at an early stage is crucial for effective disease management.
Treatment Methods
- Proposed treatment methods include physical therapy, the use of anti-inflammatory drugs, joint lavage, sodium hyaluronate, and synovectomy. These treatments aim to manage inflammation and restore joint flexibility and function.
- In cases where there are observable cartilage and bone changes, methods such as articular cartilage curettage, osteophyte removal, radiation therapy, and surgical arthrodesis may be necessary. These methods are more invasive and target the physical alterations caused by the disease.
Ongoing Research
- The study concludes by emphasizing the active and ongoing research to develop medical agents that can stimulate the synthesis of vital biochemical components of the joint cartilage and promote its healing – a crucial aspect in treating cases of advanced degenerative joint disease.
Cite This Article
APA
McIlwraith CW.
(1982).
Current concepts in equine degenerative joint disease.
J Am Vet Med Assoc, 180(3), 239-250.
Publication
Researcher Affiliations
MeSH Terms
- Adrenal Cortex Hormones / administration & dosage
- Animals
- Arthrodesis / veterinary
- Cartilage Diseases / diagnostic imaging
- Cartilage Diseases / therapy
- Cartilage Diseases / veterinary
- Cartilage, Articular / injuries
- Cartilage, Articular / pathology
- Horse Diseases / diagnostic imaging
- Horses
- Injections, Intra-Articular
- Joint Diseases / diagnosis
- Joint Diseases / therapy
- Joint Diseases / veterinary
- Physical Therapy Modalities / veterinary
- Radiography
References
This article includes 139 references
Citations
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