The mnemonic
Marginal erosions, Osteopenia, Symmetry
What each word stands for
- Marginal erosionsAt bare areas of the joint
- OsteopeniaPeriarticular
- SymmetryBilateral and symmetric small joint involvement
Why it matters clinically
Differentiates it from osteoarthritis.
Where it stops being reliable
Early disease may show only soft tissue swelling.
Teaching aid, still awaiting independent review. Confirm facts in a standard source.