Degenerative diseases of
the knee most often involve the cartilage that protects the knee joint.
Chondromalacia, also known as chondromalacia patellae, results from the
cartilage within the kneecap softening so the kneecap no longer slides
over the femur bone. Most often, this condition is seen in young adults
and people active in sports. Another degenerative joint disease is osteochondritis
dissecans. In this condition, there is a loss or interruption of blood
supply to the bones of the knee joint. The cartilage gradually loosens
and there is pain with movement. This condition may arise spontaneously
in an active adolescent or young adult and may lead to the development
of osteoarthritis.
