How can you differentiate degenerative arthropathies from infectious arthropathies?

To differentiate degenerative arthropathies from infectious arthropathies, the presence and type of inflammatory cells in the joint fluid or tissue are crucial indicators. Degenerative arthropathies, such as osteoarthritis, typically present with a predominance of mononuclear cells, which include lymphocytes and macrophages. This cellular composition reflects a chronic inflammatory process associated with wear and tear on the joints rather than an acute infection.

In contrast, infectious arthropathies generally showcase a marked increase in neutrophils, the white blood cells that respond to acute infections, indicating a rapid inflammatory response as the body attempts to combat pathogens. Thus, identifying a predominance of mononuclear cells in a sample supports the classification as a degenerative arthropathy. This distinction plays a vital role in guiding appropriate treatment strategies and management of the condition.