SNP Shot: Genomic Insights

Osteoarthritis, a prevalent joint disease, predominantly affects older individuals. It arises from the deterioration of cartilage, the resilient tissue cushioning bone ends within joints, facilitating fluid motion. Commonly affected areas include the hands, shoulders, spine, knees, and hips, although any joint can be involved.

The onset of osteoarthritis is generally gradual. As the condition progresses, it leads to pain, stiffness, and limited joint mobility. The loss of cartilage protection causes bones to grind against each other, leading to their degradation. The body's attempts to repair and rebuild damaged tissues trigger further issues. The immune system, involved in the healing process, targets these areas, causing joint tissue inflammation. Bone spurs (osteophytes) and other tissue abnormalities may form, sometimes visibly enlarging the joints, particularly in the fingers.

A hallmark symptom of osteoarthritis is stiffness after periods of rest, like waking up or getting up from a seated position. This stiffness typically eases with movement. While some individuals experience minimal impact from the condition, others suffer significant mobility limitations and difficulty performing everyday tasks. Severe osteoarthritis negatively affects quality of life and raises the risk of other health problems, like cardiovascular disease.

Osteoarthritis is most frequently diagnosed in middle-aged or older adults, due to the natural age-related thinning of joint cartilage. However, it can manifest earlier, particularly following joint injuries like an ACL tear. Individuals who are overweight or engage in activities that heavily stress the joints are also more prone to developing osteoarthritis.

Inheritance:

A heightened susceptibility to osteoarthritis, rather than the disease itself, can be inherited. This predisposition can run in families, although the specific mode of inheritance remains unclear.