FIGURE 1.

Clinical information-based and molecule-based diagnosis and treatment algorithm of KOA. (A) In the clinical information-based KOA diagnosis and treatment algorithm, there is no symptoms, signs, and imaging information for pre-KOA. In early KOA, early symptoms and mild imaging results can be acquired. In progressive and late-stage KOA, the diagnosis is comparatively easy due to obvious clinical manifestations. Treatment decision making principally depends on clinical appearances and in turn, the evaluation of therapeutic efficacy is largely based on clinical outcomes. (B) In the molecule-based KOA diagnosis and treatment algorithm, the detection of KOA risk factors-related molecules in body fluids provides opportunity for the prediction of high-risk KOA individuals, and subsequently the preventive strategies. Although clinical information in early and progressive stage are acquirable, disease corresponding molecules permit the stratification of homogenous individuals and the classification of KOA into several subtypes. The molecular classification of KOA may help to reveal the pathogenesis of KOA, explore the molecule-based treatment, and further assess the therapeutic efficacy of treatment. For end-stage KOA, TKA might still be the best option. KOA, knee osteoarthritis; TKA, total knee arthroplasty.