My name is Enock,my query is about the differences in hand ultrasound and Rheumatology scans of the hand and foot.
What are the salient issues to look for in both scans and what should the report format be to the clinicians.
With rheumatology it is all about synovitis and erosions. I use slow flow Doppler like SMI or equivalent, and look at the joint capsules for evidence of flow which suggests synovitis. The synovitis comes well before the erosions so it is important to make the diagnosis before the erosions appear as long term medicated outcomes are much better.
With hands which is most common look on the radial aspect of the MCP joints between the hyaline cartilage and the joint capsule. It’s called the bare area and is the most sensitive spot for RA erosions
RA likes the mcp and pip joints but not so much the dip .
It also likes the distal radioulnar joint and radiocarpal joint so look there also.
I have attached a few schematics I have made with the common distribution for RA, OA and gout in the hand.
Thanks very much,I would love you to make webinar on this subject so that we can learn from you,and most importantly report format to clinicians.
Many thanks!
Enock