Hemophilic arthropathy: a review of imaging and staging

Abstract

Hemophilic arthropathy (HA) contributes the greatest morbidity and cost in the hemophilic population. Imaging plays a crucial role in accurately monitoring the disease process in all phases and evaluating treatment. It has been shown that prophylactic factor VIII replacement therapy, if given early in life, can prevent or delay the progression of HA and reduce the frequency of hemarthroses. This review evaluates the role of the different imaging modalities used in the staging of HA. It is noteworthy that a new refined consensus magnetic resonance imaging scale for assessment of HA has recently been published which together with introduction of semiquantitative scoring systems in ultrasound will help to provide a more tailored approach to the management of HA in the future.