The aim of this study is to describe macro- and micro anatomical structures, including investigating vessels running in osseous pores in finger joints from participants with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using histology and different imaging modalities. The perspectives are to increase understanding of the macro- and micro anatomic basis for bone erosions in RA, and possibly to provide new insights to the monitoring of patients with RA.
This study is a descriptive, cross-sectional pilot study. The trial subjects will have their hands imaged by conventional radiography. The 2nd and 3rd digit metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joint will be scanned by high-resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR-pQCT). Patients with RA (n = 10) will be included and bone samples from MCP joints analyzed using microcomputed tomography (µCT) and histology. ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA Inclusion criteria: * Age \> 18 years. * Participants diagnosed with RA according to the ACR/EULAR (2010) classification criteria or American Rheumatism Association 1987 revised criteria for the patients who were diagnosed before 2010. * Indication for prosthesis surgery with total joint replacement of the MCP joint according to the clinical procedure (often radiological signs of osteoarthrosis (OA) in the MCP joint, joint pain, angular deformity and/or impairment of daily functions).
Study Type
OBSERVATIONAL
Enrollment
9
Aarhus University Hospital
Aarhus, Central Region of Denmark, Denmark
Regional Hospital Holstebro
Holstebro, Central Region of Denmark, Denmark
Transcortical vessels and pores.
To identify and describe transcortical vessels and pores at the bare area in MCP joints from RA patients and describe the location, number, and compare intra- and extra-articularly by histology, μCT, and HR-pQCT.
Time frame: within 24 weeks after inclusion
The bare area
To identify and describe the bare area in MCP joints from RA patients macroscopically, with imaging (HR-pQCT, conventional X-ray, μCT), and histology.
Time frame: within 24 weeks after inclusion
Bone erosions
To identify bone erosions by conventional X-ray, μCT, and HR-pQCT and assess inflammatory infiltrates using histology in RA patients.
Time frame: within 24 weeks after inclusion
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.