Pathophysiology Osteophytes are formed of fibrocartilage and bone, often forming at the peripheral margins of joints at the interface between cartilage and the periosteum. Osteophytes are thought to develop from chondrogenic differentiation of progenitor cells, commonly from within the periosteum. Osteophytes appear to be a cellular repair response to the altered growth factor environment following joint injury. In some cases osteophytes can contribute to the stability of the joints. [2] Osteophytes are cartilage-capped bony proliferations (bony spurs) that most commonly develop at the margins of a synovial joint as a response to articular cartilage damage, as seen very commonly in degenerative joint disease. Central osteophytes c... Osteophytes are bony projections that form along the edges of bones, often in response to joint damage or degeneration. Learn about the factors that contribute to osteophyte formation, how they affect joint function, and what treatment options are available. An osteophyte, also known as a bone spur, may develop in joints damaged by arthritis. Bone spur formation is typically associated with osteoarthritis.
