How do you Diagnose Polyarthritis?
- The doctor first takes a detailed clinical history and then performs a physical exam to check your joints for swelling, redness, warmth and also how well you can move your joints.
- To help determine the type of arthritis your body fluids such as blood, urine and synovial fluid analysis may be performed.
The following imaging tests may also be advised:
- X-rays - These can show cartilage loss, bone damage and are often used to track progression of the disease.
- Computerized tomography (CT) - These scans offer 3-D views of both bone and the surrounding soft tissues.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) - Combining radio waves with a strong magnetic field, MRI can produce more detailed cross sectional images of soft tissues such as cartilage, tendons and ligaments.
- Ultrasound - This technology uses high-frequency sound waves to image soft tissues, cartilage and fluid containing structures.
