[Evaluation through imaging of early rheumatoid arthritis]

Abstract

Radiography is the most widely utilized imaging modality for measuring joint damage in early rheumatoid arthritis. Conventional radiography is, however, insensitive for showing bone erosions and is totally unsuitable for assessing synovial inflammation. The recognition of these limitations has led to intense interest in ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging for assessing synovitis and bone erosions. Magnetic resonance imaging allows detection of bone marrow edema, which is considered to be a very early marker of inflammation as well as a "forerunner" of erosions.