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Professional Technical IVT

Eaton-Littler classification

Radiographic staging system for thumb CMC joint arthritis from stage I to IV.

Full Definition

A widely used classification system for grading the severity of thumb carpometacarpal joint arthritis based on radiographic findings. Stage I shows widening of the joint space, Stage II demonstrates joint space narrowing with osteophytes less than 2mm, Stage III shows osteophytes greater than 2mm, and Stage IV involves pantrapezial arthritis with scaphotrapezial joint involvement. This classification guides surgical decision-making.

Usage

Usage note: Always capitalize proper names; specify the stage (I-IV) when documenting arthritis severity.

In Context

  • "Radiographs demonstrated Eaton-Littler stage III thumb CMC arthritis with significant osteophyte formation." — Radiology report
  • "Progression from Eaton-Littler stage II to stage IV occurred over a three-year period." — Longitudinal study

Also known as

CMC arthritis classification thumb arthritis staging

Don't confuse with

Kellgren-Lawrence classification House classification

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