Kellgrens syndrome (Generalized Osteoarthritis)
A variant of OA, sometimes called Kellgren’s syndrome , in which individuals have several affected joints in the typical distribution for OA. Although there is no universally accepted definition, most patients with generalized OA typically have four or more joint sites symmetrically involved. The most commonly involved joints are the hand interphalangeal joints (DIP and PIP joints) and first CMC joints with the spine, knees, hips, and first MTP involved in descending frequency. The disease frequently manifests before the age of 40 to 50 years. Radiographic findings may be more severe than symptoms. Generalized OA may simply be a more severe form of common OA, although some researchers have reported various associations with genetic polymorphisms or mutations that could contribute to more rapid cartilage degeneration.
