bone and joint disorders Flashcards
(72 cards)
These are rigid organs that make up the skeleton. They provide structure, support, and protection to the body.
Bones
An adult human body has _ bones.
206
It is the place where two or more bones meet, it connects the bones, allowing for flexibility and movement while maintaining overall stability.
joint
This helps to reduce friction between the bones and cushions the joint.
synovial fluid in synovial joints
A sudden and severe inflammatory arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain, swelling, redness, and warmth
Gout
Causes of Gout
Excess Uric Acid Production
Uric Acid Excretion Problems
a waste product formed during the breakdown of purines (substances found naturally in the body and some foods).
Uric acid
Normal Uric Acid for Males:
4.0 to 8.5 mg/dL (0.24 to 0.51 mmol/L)
Normal Uric Acid for Females:
2.7 to 7.3 mg/dL (0.16 to 0.43 mmol/L)
Medications that can Increase Uric Acid Levels:
Diuretics
Low-dose Aspirin
Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3)
Levodopa
Immunosuppressants
Often used for high blood pressure and heart failure, can elevate uric acid levels by reducing its excretion through the kidneys.
Diuretics
While it is often used for its blood-thinning effects, low doses (less than 300 mg daily) can decrease the kidneys’ ability to eliminate uric acid.
Low-dose Aspirin
High doses, sometimes used to lower cholesterol, can raise uric acid levels.
Nicotinic Acid (Vitamin B3)
A medication used for Parkinson’s disease, can increase uric acid production.
Levodopa
Medications that suppress the immune system, such as __, can elevate uric acid levels as a side effect
Immunosuppressants
cyclosporine and tacrolimus
It is the mainstay of treatment, reducing uric acid production.
Xanthine oxidase inhibitors (Allopurinol)
It helps the kidneys eliminate uric acid. (Not always combined with allopurinol due to potential interactions).
Uricosurics (Probenecid)
Unlike low-dose aspirin, this (greater than 300 mg daily) can increase uric acid excretion.
Salicylates (High-Dose Aspirin)
Important to note: High-dose aspirin can have serious side effects and should not be taken without consulting a doctor.
Certain medications used for cancer treatment can lower uric acid levels as a side effect.
Chemotherapy Drugs
Mechanism of action: These drugs block the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which is involved in the production of uric acid. By inhibiting this enzyme, less uric acid is formed.
Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors:
Enzyme involved in the production of uric acid
Xanthine oxidase
(Drug of choice for chronic gout):
This is the most commonly used and well-established medication for lowering uric acid levels.
It’s generally well-tolerated but can cause side effects like skin rash in some people.
Allopurinol