How are the hand joint patterns of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis different?

The primary difference between rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis regarding the hands lies in the specific distribution of the joints affected.1

• Rheumatoid Arthritis: This condition typically affects the more proximal joints of the hands. It is a progressive inflammatory disease that can lead to significant joint deformities, laxity, and tendon rupture.1
• Osteoarthritis: In contrast, this degenerative joint disease tends to affect the more distal joints of the hands and fingers. It is characterized by the deterioration of cartilage and the formation of bony projections known as osteophytes, or bone spurs.123

While rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease involving systemic inflammation, osteoarthritis is primarily a noninflammatory, degenerative condition associated with the wear and tear of joint structures over time.123