Heberden's nodes are typically associated with which condition?

Heberden's nodes are bony swellings that develop on the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joints of the fingers. They are characteristic features of osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease that commonly affects older adults. Osteoarthritis is associated with the wear and tear of cartilage and changes in the underlying bone, leading to joint symptoms such as pain, stiffness, and swelling. The formation of Heberden's nodes is a result of osteophyte development and bone remodeling at these joints, which is directly linked to the pathology of osteoarthritis.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis typically affects the proximal interphalangeal (PIP) joints and is characterized by different types of joint inflammation and deformities, rather than Heberden's nodes. Gout is primarily characterized by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals and often presents with acute, painful flares, usually affecting the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Psoriatic arthritis can also affect the distal joints, but its hallmark features are different, such as dactylitis (sausage digit) and nail changes. The specificity of Heberden's nodes as an indicator of osteoarthritis highlights their role in differentiating it from these other conditions.