Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions — written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Intermittent hydrarthrosis
Introduction
Synonyms and keywords:
Overview
Overview
Intermittent hydrarthrosis[1] is an rare syndrome affecting women that is characterized by symmetric joint effusions, predominantly involving the knees, without joint destruction. These effusions occur periodically, with recurrent self-remitting episodes of acute arthritis often monthly at or around the menses.
Pathophysiology
Pathophysiology
The pathogenesis of Intermittent hydrarthrosis is unknown. An involvement of mastocytes has been reported.
Genetics
Recently, heterozygous disease-associated mutations of the Mediterranean fever gene MEFV gene[2], which encodes the pyrin/marenostrin protein, were identified in patients with intermittent hydrarthrosis but without other features of familial Mediterranean fever.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis
Symptoms
Intermittent hydrarthrosis is charecterized by mild to moderate joint pain and stiffness when the disease is active. Aspirated synovial fluid is either bland or reflects mild inflammation.
Treatment
Treatment
Pharmacotherapy
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids and colchicine are used, generally with good results, but some patients persist with recurrent episodes of arthritis.
References
References
- ↑ “//Intermittent Hydrarthrosis – Rheumatology, 5th Edition: Expert Consult”. Retrieved 2012-08-20.
Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]