AEMCA Practice Exam

What condition affects joint cartilage and can cause swelling and pain during movement?

1. Rheumatoid arthritis

2. Osteoarthritis

3. Huntington's disease

4. Osteomyelitis

The correct answer is: Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the cartilage, which is the smooth, protective tissue at the ends of bones where they meet to form a joint. In cases of osteoarthritis, the cartilage gradually wears away, leading to increased friction between the bones. This degeneration can result in a range of symptoms, including swelling and pain during movement, especially after periods of inactivity or excessive use. As the condition progresses, the body may respond with swelling around the joint, and individuals often experience stiffness, reduced range of motion, and changes in joint shape. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune condition affecting multiple joints and may involve systemic symptoms, osteoarthritis generally affects weight-bearing joints such as the knees, hips, and spine. The other conditions mentioned, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are characterized by inflammatory processes that also affect the joints but involve different mechanisms and symptoms. Huntington's disease is a neurodegenerative disorder that does not directly affect joint cartilage but impacts motor control and can lead to difficulties in movement. Osteomyelitis is an infection of the bone, which may cause severe pain and swelling, but it is not directly related to cartilage deterioration. Therefore, osteoarthritis is correctly identified as the condition that primarily affects joint cartilage and leads to