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Study That Links Bone Marrow Lesion To Hip Cartilage Degeneration Is Key For The Future Of Osteoarthritis Research

July 13, 2023 (Vancouver) Bone marrow lesions (BMLS) are associated with hip pain and progressive cases of osteoarthritis. Existing research in the knee has suggested that BMLs appear alongside cartilage damage. A new study by Carly Jones, a PhD candidate at the Centre for Aging SMART along with Arthritis Research Canada scientists Dr. Jolanda Cibere and Dr. John Esdaile, found this to also be true for the hip.

By evaluating the overall structures of cartilage, the main goal of this study was to examine the cartilage in areas overlying BMLs in the hip and compare that to the cartilage of people without BMLs in the hip. This helped to understand the role of this type of lesion in cartilage degeneration.

This research found that, similar to the knee, people with BMLs in the hip, compared to those without BMLs, had overlying local cartilage degeneration. In particular, local cartilage degeneration was more pronounced on the pelvis than on the thigh bone. This finding supports the importance of analyzing the pelvis and thigh bone cartilage separately.

“Understanding BMLs and the role they play in cartilage health is essential for the future of osteoarthritis research,” said Dr. Jolanda Cibere, Senior Scientist at Arthritis Research Canada. “This may provide opportunities for early intervention and disease-modifying treatments for osteoarthritis.”

You can read more about this study here

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ABOUT ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA:

Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research institution in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people living with arthritis through research and engagement. Arthritis Research Canada’s scientific director, Dr. Diane Lacaille is leading a team of over 100 researchers, trainees and staff whose life-changing research is creating a future where people living with arthritis have the knowledge and tools to triumph over pain and disability. Arthritis Research Canada is now conducting arthritis research from coast to coast with centres in British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Nova Scotia and scientists affiliated with six major universities: University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, Université Laval, McGill University, and Dalhousie University. Arthritis Research Canada is leading research aimed at preventing arthritis, facilitating early diagnosis, finding new and better treatments, and improving quality of life.

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Victoria Rubio
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604-207-4010 or vrubio@arthritisresearch.ca