The significance of measurement of cartilage matrix degradation products by synovial fluid analysis in the early diagnosis and monitorization of osteoarthritis

Abstract

Osteoarthritis, is a slowly progressive disease that is caused by an imbalance between synthesis and breakdown of cartilage matrix. Diagnosis is commonly performed clinically and radiologically during the Iate stages of disease. In both primary and secondary arthritis, the degradation products of cartilage matrix released into the synovial fluid is found elevated and can be detected using sensitive biochemical methods before the radiological findings manifest. In this paper, the matrix molecules and fragments used as the markers of cartilage turnover in the early diagnosis and monitorization of osteoarthritis will be discussed.