Osteoarthritis primarily involves the degeneration of which type of cartilage?

Osteoarthritis is primarily characterized by the degeneration of articular or hyaline cartilage. This type of cartilage covers the ends of bones in synovial joints, which allows for smooth movements and absorbs shock during various activities. In osteoarthritis, the wear and tear on this cartilage lead to a breakdown, reducing its ability to protect the bones and resulting in pain, swelling, and decreased mobility for the affected joint.

The condition typically arises from factors such as age, repetitive stress on the joint, or previous injuries, which further compromise the integrity of the articular cartilage. As the cartilage thins and deteriorates, the underlying bone may become exposed, leading to further complications, such as bone spurs and changes in the joint structure.

Other types of cartilage, like fibrous cartilage, serve different functions, such as providing support in certain joints or the intervertebral discs, and elastic cartilage is found in structures that require flexibility, such as the epiglottis. Cervical cartilage is not a recognized category of cartilage relevant to the context of osteoarthritis. Hence, the focus on articular or hyaline cartilage is crucial to understanding the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis.