Question

Which one of the following is NOT a radiological feature of osteoarthritis?

• A. Widening of the joint space
• B. Osteophyte formation
• C. Subchondral sclerosis
• D. Cyst formation

Hint:

Osteoarthritis narrows the joint space, it does not widen it.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks which finding is not part of the usual x-ray picture of osteoarthritis.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Osteoarthritis wears away the joint cartilage, and this is what shows up on an x-ray as a set of four classic signs.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
As cartilage is lost, the space between the two bone ends in the joint gets narrower, not wider, so narrowing, not widening, of the joint space is the true finding.
Osteophyte formation, small bony spurs that grow at the joint margins as the body tries to stabilize the damaged joint, is a genuine feature of osteoarthritis.
Subchondral sclerosis, an increase in bone density just under the worn cartilage, is also a genuine feature, since the bone reacts to the extra load it now carries.
Subchondral cyst formation, fluid filled spaces in the bone under the joint surface, is the fourth classic feature and does occur in osteoarthritis.
Since three of the four options are real features and only the joint space actually narrows instead of widening, widening of the joint space is the option that is not seen.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Widening of the joint space is not a feature of osteoarthritis.