Recent Advances in Osteoarthritis: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Therapeutic Strategies

Resumen

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative joint disease that affects millions of people worldwide, representing a major cause of disability, particularly in aging populations. Characterized by progressive cartilage breakdown, subchondral bone changes, and synovial inflammation, OA severely impacts joint function and quality of life. Despite significant research efforts, effective disease-modifying treatments remain elusive, and current therapies primarily focus on symptomatic relief rather than halting or reversing disease progression. Recent advances in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying OA have provided new insights into its pathophysiology, which includes altered chondrocyte function, extracellular matrix degradation, and inflammatory cytokine signaling.