Sections View Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Annotate Full Chapter Figures Tables Videos Supplementary Content + Download Section PDF Listen ++ For further information, see CMDT Part 20-49: Neurogenic Arthropathy (Charcot Joint) + Key Features Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Joint destruction resulting from loss or diminution of proprioception, pain, and temperature perception As normal muscle tone and protective reflexes are lost, secondary degenerative joint disease ensues Although initially described in the knees of patients with tabes dorsalis, it is now more frequently seen in association with diabetic neuropathy (foot and ankle) or syringomyelia (shoulder) + Clinical Findings Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ An enlarged, boggy, relatively painless joint with extensive cartilage erosion, osteophyte formation, and multiple loose-joint bodies + Diagnosis Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Radiographs can reveal striking osteolysis that mimics osteomyelitis or dramatic destruction of the joint with subluxation, fragmentation of bone, and bony sclerosis Differential diagnosis Repeated trauma (causing degenerative joint disease) Rheumatoid arthritis Chronic hemarthrosis (bleed) Chondrocalcinosis (eg, pseudogout, hemochromatosis, Wilson disease) + Treatment Download Section PDF Listen +++ ++ Directed toward the primary disease Mechanical devices are used to assist in weight bearing and prevention of further trauma In some instances, amputation becomes unavoidable