Blood Test May Detect Signs of Knee Osteoarthritis Early
A recent study has revealed that a blood test may have the potential to detect signs of knee osteoarthritis up to eight years before they become visible on x-rays. The study involved analyzing the blood of 200 white British women, half of whom had knee osteoarthritis and half who did not. The researchers found that a small number of biomarkers could distinguish between the two groups.
The senior study author, Virginia Byers Kraus, a professor at Duke University School of Medicine, expressed excitement about the findings. She stated, “It was exciting to find out that we were able to identify patients with knee osteoarthritis eight years before they experienced any changes on the X-rays.” Kraus specializes in the departments of Medicine, Pathology, and Orthopedic Surgery.
This study builds upon previous research that demonstrated high accuracy in predicting and diagnosing knee arthritis. The previous research showed 74% accuracy in predicting knee arthritis progression and 85% accuracy in diagnosing knee arthritis.
Currently, approximately 35 million adults in the United States suffer from knee arthritis. While there is no cure for this disease, early identification and intervention could potentially slow its progression. Kraus compared knee osteoarthritis to other chronic illnesses like heart disease, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer’s disease, stating that early detection could prevent it from becoming debilitating.
Traditionally, knee osteoarthritis is diagnosed at a later stage when x-ray changes are visible. However, this study highlights that there are many factors at play before those changes occur. By identifying the disease earlier, doctors may be able to prevent disability, pain, and a decline in quality of life.
If patients discover they are at high risk for knee osteoarthritis through a blood test, Kraus advises them to make lifestyle changes such as losing weight, exercising, eating healthily, or even receiving steroid injections.
In addition to the pain it causes patients, knee osteoarthritis also leads to a significant economic impact due to joint replacements. Stephen Messier, a professor at Wake Forest University, expressed concern about the rising healthcare costs associated with osteoarthritis. He emphasized the importance of early detection and intervention to reduce pain and loss of function before joint replacement surgery becomes necessary.
However, before the blood test can be widely used, it needs to undergo validation. Additionally, the study only included white women, so future studies should include a more diverse range of patients.
Kraus also noted that there are approximately 100 different types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Further studies will examine how the blood test could potentially detect early signs of arthritis in other joints such as the hips, hands, and spine.
Overall, the researchers believe that utilizing a blood test could lead to early and targeted interventions for patients with knee osteoarthritis who would otherwise go undetected. Kraus emphasized the importance of lifestyle management for both older and younger individuals at risk of chronic diseases.