Joint mucosa inflammation
Inflammation of the synovial membrane, also known as synovitis, refers to a painful and swelling reaction of the body in the area of the synovial membrane (synonyms: synovialis or synovial membrane). It can lead to redness and overheating of the joint. In addition, fluid can also accumulate and lead to joint effusion.
The function of the joint may be impaired and stiffness of the affected joint may occur. Inflammation of the joint mucosa can have many different causes. These include trauma, autoimmune and metabolic diseases, infections and wear-related inflammation.
Trauma, i.e. physical damage caused by a fall or impact, for example, can be the trigger for the inflammation. Similarly, advanced arthrosis can trigger rubbing of the cartilage and bones, thereby causing inflammation. An infestation of a joint by a bacterial or viral pathogen also triggers an immunological response, whereby both the pathogen itself and the resulting reaction can cause lasting damage to the joint.
Autoimmunologically caused diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis-arthritis also attack the joints and cause an inflammation. Metabolic diseases such as gout also lead to inflammation and destruction of the affected joint by depositing crystals there which then activate the immune system. A therapy should be anti-inflammatory and fight the cause. It is important to note that inflammation of the synovial membrane of any kind can destroy a joint because the immune reaction releases enzymes and recruits cells that can also destroy healthy tissue.
Articular effusion
A joint effusion is caused by too much fluid in the joint capsule. This can have various causes.In principle, every inflammation leads to an increased accumulation of fluid and thus to an effusion. Therefore, all causes of inflammation of the synovial membrane also play a role in the development of joint effusion.
In addition, incorrect weight bearing and other diseases such as a tendency to bleed or local tumors can also lead to swelling of the joint. Depending on the cause of the joint effusion, the fluid that can be obtained from the joint by means of a puncture has different compositions. Normal synovia is clear and viscous.
In case of bacterial inflammation it can be purulent and yellow. Bruising due to trauma or bleeding tendency leads to a reddish discoloration. Diagnosis includes clarification of the cause and if necessary a puncture is performed. This can help to find the cause, but can also be a therapy by relieving the pressure on the joint capsule. The treatment includes the elimination of the cause, immobilisation and protection of the joint with subsequent re-mobilisation and, if necessary, a puncture to relieve pressure.