Information for Medical Professionals
MRI could boost arthritis diagnosis
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could be used to boost the diagnosis of arthritis.
According to new research published in the Journal of Roentgenology, contrast-enhanced MRI scans can be used to help differentiate between rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.
Dr Nina Schwenzer, the lead author behind the new research, said that the two conditions can be difficult to tell apart - especially in the early stages of arthritis symptom presentation.
She claimed that symptoms of the two conditions are often similar, despite the fact that the conditions are radically different.
"In the past, the treatment strategy for patients with psoriatic arthritis was based on that for patients with rheumatoid arthritis," she said.
"Recent research indicates that the therapeutic management, including medication and therapy monitoring, has to be adapted for each type of arthritis," she added.
Research conducted at the University of Leeds last year showed that as many as 14 per cent of patients suffering from psoriasis present arthritic symptoms relating to the condition, reports Reuters.
News provided by Adfero in collaboration with Biomet. Please note that all copy is (c) Adfero Ltd and does not reflect the views or opinions of Biomet unless explicitly stated.
© Copyright 2012 Biomet, Inc. All rights reserved.
