Side Effects Of Pannus Growth

Excess Fluid Production

Pannus growths stimulate excess fluid production by the joints. The synovial membrane is a type of connective tissue that cushions the joints, protecting them from friction during movement. The synovial membrane manufactures tiny amounts of fluid to help joints remain lubricated. If a pannus growth is present, this process can be disrupted, and excessive fluid may be produced. The accumulation of excess fluid typically leads to complications such as swelling of the joints, inflammation, and the deterioration of tissue. Rheumatologists can check for signs of excess fluid production with a clinical examination to assess the joints for tenderness, pain, and swelling. Sometimes, imaging studies such as ultrasounds, x-rays, and CT scans may be useful in investigating the fluid more closely. Patients may find that their everyday activities are limited as a result of pain and swelling. For example, they may have trouble writing, and it may be painful to walk. Patients may need to adapt their schedules to include more frequent breaks when doing potentially painful activities.

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Bone Marrow Damage

Bone marrow damage is a severe complication of pannus growths. The bone marrow is a soft, spongy material located within certain bones of the body, and it is responsible for the production of blood stem cells that convert into red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. More than 200 billion red blood cells are newly produced each day by the body's bone marrow. Some of the most common locations for bone marrow include the hip and thigh bones. Patients with bone marrow damage may have compromised immune systems, which can make them particularly vulnerable to infections of all kinds, including the common cold, the flu, and methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. Bone marrow is essential for life, and many patients with bone marrow issues will eventually need a bone marrow transplant. While living donors can give these transplants, and it can sometimes be challenging to find a match. Patients who have pannus growths and are at risk for bone marrow problems should discuss this risk with their healthcare team to find out about ways to minimize the chances of developing this serious complication.

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