Research has demonstrated that many individuals with Crohnâs ileitis share a genetic mutation that may play a significant role in disease development. A hypersensitive immuno-response to a pathogenic presence, such as bacteria, within the gastrointestinal tract is also suspected of contributing to the disease's onset.
Secondary osteoarthritis occurs less frequently than primary (also known as idiopathic) osteoarthritis. Primary osteoarthritis means that there is no known cause for the joint breakdown.
Primary osteoarthritis, as part of the normal aging process, is most likely to strike the joints that receive the most use or stress over the years. These include the knees, the joints of the big toes, and those of the lower part of the spine.