Fisiopatología del cartílago y bases para futuras terapias en osteoartritis temprana

osteoarthritis (oa) is the most common arthropathy. it is characterized by pain with or without joint limitation. degeneration of articular cartilage is an essential feature in its pathogenesis. in daily practice the treatment is directed to relief of pain and to improve joint function without modifying the disease itself. in the past few years, there have been important findings in the general understanding of the cartilage and its central role in the development of oa. new therapeutic options, especially those directed to modify the natural course, are under investigation in early oa.