In terms of joint conditions, what distinguishes osteoarthritis from rheumatoid arthritis?

The distinction that rheumatoid arthritis can spread throughout the body while osteoarthritis cannot is accurate because it highlights the systemic nature of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition that can impact various organ systems beyond just the joints, leading to widespread inflammation, fatigue, and other systemic symptoms. This condition often results in joint damage but can also affect the skin, heart, lungs, and other areas.

In contrast, osteoarthritis is primarily a degenerative joint disease that typically results from wear and tear on the joints and does not usually involve systemic symptoms or effects on other body systems. It predominantly affects specific joints, particularly those that bear weight or have been subjected to repetitive motion. Understanding this difference is crucial for recognizing the varied clinical manifestations and treatment approaches for these two types of arthritis.