Osteoarthrosis and Osteoarthritis: Terminology Clarification
Yes, osteoarthrosis is simply another term for osteoarthritis—they refer to the same degenerative joint disease characterized by cartilage breakdown and underlying bone changes. The terms are used interchangeably in medical literature and clinical practice.
Defining the Condition
Both terms describe a degenerative joint disease involving:
- Degeneration of articular cartilage with progressive breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone 1
- Hypertrophic bone changes including osteophyte formation and subchondral bone remodeling 2, 3
- Clinical manifestations of joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and disability in activities of daily living 2, 3
Pathophysiological Features
The disease process affects the entire joint structure as a whole organ:
- Cartilage degradation triggers an inflammatory cascade with release of catabolic mediators 4
- Synovial inflammation and joint effusion result from the inflammatory response 4
- Subchondral bone changes including sclerosis and cyst formation occur simultaneously 3, 5
- Osteophyte formation develops as part of the hypertrophic bone response 3, 5
Terminology Usage
The term "osteoarthrosis" historically emphasized the degenerative nature of the condition, while "osteoarthritis" highlights the inflammatory component. Modern understanding recognizes that both degeneration and inflammation are integral to the disease process 3, 6. Current medical literature predominantly uses "osteoarthritis" as the standard terminology 1, 2.
Clinical Implications
Regardless of which term is used, the clinical approach remains identical:
- Diagnosis is based on history of joint pain worsened by movement, with plain radiography showing joint space narrowing, osteophytes, and subchondral changes 2
- Risk factors include genetics, female sex, past trauma, advancing age, and obesity 2
- Treatment involves pharmacologic management starting with acetaminophen, NSAIDs, exercise, and ultimately joint replacement for refractory cases 2