Etymed
arthropathy
Definition
A disease or pathological condition affecting the joints
Clinical context
A 45-year-old woman presents with progressive joint pain and swelling in her hands and knees over the past 6 months. On examination, she has tender, swollen joints with limited range of motion. X-rays show joint space narrowing and bone erosion. These findings are consistent with rheumatoid arthropathy. The patient's symptoms began after a recent viral illness and have progressively worsened despite NSAID therapy.
Mnemonic
ARTHROPATHY = ARTHRITIS + OTHERS (other joint conditions)