MedComic

Osteoarthritis vs. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Jorge Muniz ·
Educational medical illustration comparing osteoarthritis (OA, degenerative joint disease with Heberden's and Bouchard's nodes, asymmetric involvement, and osteophytes on radiograph) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA, autoimmune inflammatory synovitis with symmetric joint involvement, positive rheumatoid factor and anti-CCP, and periarticular erosions)
Illustrated guide comparing osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) — including clinical features, physical exam findings, laboratory values, and characteristic radiographic signs. Proprietary medical illustration by Jorge Muniz, PA-C.

Osteoarthritis (OA)

  • Degenerative disease that causes articular cartilage loss and joint space narrowing
  • Heberden's nodes are bony prominences located at the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints. Bouchard's nodes are located at the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints.
  • Typically affects joints asymmetrically
  • Usually negative/normal lab findings
  • Radiograph: subchondral sclerosis, osteophytes, cysts, joint space narrowing, subluxation

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

  • Autoimmune disease that causes inflammatory synovitis
  • Heberden's nodes are absent. Bouchard's nodes are not common, but may be present.
  • Typically affects joints symmetrically
  • Positive rheumatoid factor, anti-CCP antibody, and elevated ESR and CRP
  • Radiograph: periarticular osteopenia, bone erosions, joint space narrowing, subluxation

Master ECG Interpretation with Sparkson

Get instant digital access to the complete Sparkson ECG guide, the full MedComic library, and educational games. One-time purchase.

Get Instant Access for $49