The Causal Relations of Rheumatoid Disintegration of Juxta-Articular Bone Trabeculae: A Radiographic Study

SummaryStereo-radiographic and stereo-microradiographic investigations were carried out in order to investigate rheumatoid disintegration of juxta-articular bone trabeculae. It was established, that extensive thinning, distortion and disappearance of the trabeculae are present within the bone. Areas of disintegration could be found without a connection with the surface of the bone or the joint. Another mossy type of change of the osseous structure was detected on the subchondral surface. The causal relationship between the destruction of the trabeculae within the bone and the rheumatoid process in the joint space is discussed. It is suggested, that rheumatoid nutritional and metabolic injury primarily might cause destruction of bone, followed by an injury of the cartilage. Certain other features, such as the growth of rheumatoid granulation tissue may be secondary phenomena to these primary changes. Further biophysical investigations are planned, special attention being paid to changes in the circulation. It is suggested, that the present observations should be related to other manifestations of the rheumatoid disease, such as injury of the blood and the synovial fluid.