KNEE OSTEOARTHRITIS IN YOUNG PATIENTS: CHALLENGES IN DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/levv16n54-110Keywords:
Knee Osteoarthritis, Young Adults, Early Diagnosis, Joint PreservationAbstract
Introduction: Knee osteoarthritis in young adults is increasingly recognized as a distinct clinical entity, differing from age-related osteoarthritis seen in older populations. It is strongly associated with previous joint trauma, mechanical overload, and high functional demands. The absence of standardized criteria for early osteoarthritis and the frequent presence of normal radiographs in initial stages contribute to underdiagnosis and delayed intervention. Methods: A systematized review was conducted using PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, including studies published between 2010 and 2025 in English and Portuguese. Articles addressing early definitions and diagnostic criteria for knee osteoarthritis, epidemiology and risk factors in young adults, and clinical or surgical management strategies focused on joint preservation were eligible. After screening titles, abstracts, and full texts, 15 studies were included in the qualitative synthesis. Results: The selected studies demonstrated substantial heterogeneity in defining early knee osteoarthritis but consistently reported the presence of clinical symptoms despite minimal structural changes. Magnetic resonance imaging emerged as the most sensitive method for detecting early alterations in cartilage, subchondral bone, and synovial tissue. Epidemiological data revealed strong associations between knee osteoarthritis in young adults and sports-related injuries, malalignment, mechanical overload, and activity-specific movement patterns, with significant repercussions for functional performance, social participation, and productivity. Clinical management was predominantly multimodal, emphasizing structured rehabilitation, load modification, biomechanical correction, and rational pharmacologic use. Surgically, joint-preserving procedures—such as osteotomies and cartilage-focused techniques—were preferred, whereas total knee arthroplasty was reserved for advanced or refractory cases. Conclusion: Knee osteoarthritis in young adults requires early recognition, integrated diagnostic approaches, and treatment strategies centered on joint preservation. There is a need for standardized diagnostic criteria and dedicated research in this population to optimize long-term functional outcomes.
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References
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