What condition is indicated by Heberden's and Bouchard's nodes?

Heberden's and Bouchard's nodes are specific bony growths that occur in the fingers and are characteristic of osteoarthritis. Heberden's nodes appear at the distal interphalangeal joints, while Bouchard's nodes are found at the proximal interphalangeal joints. The presence of these nodes is indicative of degenerative changes in the joint due to the wear and tear associated with osteoarthritis. This condition is primarily related to aging and joint stress, making the formation of these nodes a typical finding during assessments in patients with osteoarthritis.

In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis generally presents with joint swelling, pain, and deformities but does not typically show Heberden's or Bouchard's nodes. Gout is characterized by acute inflammation and pain, particularly in the big toe, without the bony nodes observed in osteoarthritis. Psoriatic arthritis can affect the fingers, but it typically does not lead to these specific bony enlargements. Thus, the occurrence of Heberden's and Bouchard's nodes strongly supports a diagnosis of osteoarthritis.