OSTEOARTHRITIS

Osteoarthritis is characterized by thinning and destruction of the hyaline cartilage of joints, followed by remodelling of underlying bony surfaces. It is essentially noninflammatory.

PSORIATIC ARTHRITIS

Psoriasis is a relatively common skin condition. A number of HLA antigens are associated with psoriasis. When psoriatic patients carry the antigen HLA-B27, there is a high risk to develop psoriatic spondylitis. When they are positive for the antigen HLA DR4 they are more liable to develop an arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis a common complication occurring in 5% of psoriatics.

REITER'S SYNDROME

It is a seronegative arthritis consisting of a traid of

• Reactive arthritis
• Nonspecific urethritis and
• Conjunctivitis

Two types are recognised.

• Following a gastrointestinal infection (dysentery) with Yersinia, Salmonella or Shigella.
• Following nonspecific urethritis.

HALLUX RIGIDUS

Hallux rigidus occurs as two distinct varieties.

1. The adolescent type is due to synovitis of the metatarsophalangeal joint following injury,

CALCANEAN SPUR

Calcanean spur is a result of plantar fascitis following foot strain, Which is perhaps aggravated by some focus of infection.

SPRENGEL'S SHOULDER

Congenital elevation of the shoulder is a condition in which the scapula is smaller than normal and situated at a higher level. The inferior angle is rotated inwards, and abduction is restricted.

CONGENITAL ABSENCE OF THE RADIUS

Congenital absence of the radius occasionally occurs, in which case growth of the ulna pushes the hand to the radial side.

MADELUNG'S DEFROMITY ( MANUS VALGA)

Manus valga is a radial displacement of the carpus with abnormal prominence of the lower end of ulna. It is a term for a deformity and comprises many etiological conditions.

CUBITUS VALGUS

Normally the forearm lies in a slightly abducted position in relation to the axis of the humerus ( the 'carrying angle'). This varies from about 10 degrees in men to 15 degrees in women ( because of the greater width of the female pelvis in relation to the shoulders).