Charcot's joint is another name for joint affected by ?

Ans. is 'a' i.e., Neuropathy Another name given to joint affected by neuropathic ahropathy is charcot's joint. Neuropathic joint (Charcoat's joint) It is a progressive destructive ahritis associated with loss of pain sensation, proprioception or both, in addition normal muscular reflexes that modulate joint movements are decreased. Without these protective mechanisms, joints are subjected to repeated trauma, resulting in progressive cailage and bone damage. It is most commonly caused by diabetes mellitus. Pathophysiology At least two underlying mechanisms are believed to be involved in the pathogenesis of neuropathic ahritis. i) An abnormal autonomic nervous system is thought to be responsible for the increased blood flow to the joint and subsequent resorption of bone. ii) With the loss of deep pain, proprioception and protective neuromuscular reflexes, the joint is subjected to repeated injuries including ligamental tears and bone fractures. Pathology The pathological changes seen in charcoat's joints are similar to those found in severe osteoahritic joint. There is fragmentation and eventual loss of aicular cailage with eburnation of the underlying bone. Osteophytes are found at the joint margins. With more advanced diseases, erosions are present on the joint surface. Fractures, devitalized bone, and intraaicular loose bodies may be present. Joint effusions are prominent. Clinical manifestations Usually begins in a single joint and then progresses to involve other joints. The involved joints progressively becomes enlarged from bony overgrowth and synol effusion. o Loose bodies may be palpated in the joint cavity.