Tissue calcification and inflammation in osteoarthritis.

Clinical evidence of inflammation and the presence of calcium phosphate crystals in the joint fluid are both characteristics frequently seen in osteoarthritic patients. However, the relevance of the crystal deposition to the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis remains unclear. In this study of 28 patients with advanced osteoarthritis the frequency and type of crystal deposition has been investigated and the relationship between tissue inflammation and crystal deposition has been explored. Tissue calcification, though present in all patients, is but one of several intra-articular inflammatory agents. Its relevance to inflammation in osteoarthritis is discussed.