5-Minute Clinical Consult: Charcot Joint

Charcot Joint

Description

A progressive destructive arthritis secondary to peripheral neuropathy and loss of pain sensation. The affected joints are subjected to repeated stress that is unrecognized by the patient, therefore causing continuous damage to the underlying bone and cartilage.
Most often seen in tarsal and tarsometatarsal joints, less in metatarsophalangeal and talotibial joints. May also be seen in knee, hip, spine.
Upper extremity joints rarely are involved.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is the most common cause in the US.
3 stages are identified:
- Fragmentation/destruction
- Coalescence
- Consolidation/resolution
Patients suspected to have a Charcot neuropathy should be referred to an orthopedic foot and ankle surgeon or podiatrist for follow-up and treatment.
System(s) affected: Musculoskeletal; Endocrine; Neurologic
Synonym(s): Neuropathic joint disease; Neuropathic arthropathy

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