Score | Description |
---|---|
0 | No degeneration |
1 | Minimal degeneration, within the zone 3-10% of the matrix appears nonviable as a result of significant chondrocyte loss (greater than 50% of normal cell density lost in affected areas). Proteoglycan loss is usually present in these areas of cell loss and collagen matrix loss may be present |
2 | Mild degeneration, within the zone 11-25% of the matrix appears nonviable as a result of significant chondrocyte loss (greater than 50% of normal cell density lost in affected areas). Proteoglycan loss is usually present in these areas of cell loss and collagen matrix loss may be present |
3 | Moderate degeneration, within the zone 26-50% of the matrix appears nonviable as a result of significant chondrocyte loss (greater than 50% of normal cell density lost in affected areas). Proteoglycan loss is usually present in these areas of cell loss and collagen matrix loss may be present |
4 | Marked degeneration, within the zone 51-75% of the matrix appears nonviable as a result of significant chondrocyte loss (greater than 50% of normal cell density lost in affected areas). Proteoglycan loss is usually present in these areas of cell loss and collagen matrix loss may be present |
5 | Severe degeneration, within the zone 76-100% of the matrix appears nonviable as a result of significant chondrocyte loss (greater than 50% of normal cell density lost in affected areas). Proteoglycan loss is usually present in these areas of cell loss and collagen matrix loss may be present |