In early osteoarthritis, radiographic assessment is most likely to show what finding?

In early osteoarthritis, the most characteristic finding visible on radiographic assessment is joint space narrowing. This occurs as the cartilage that cushions the joint begins to degrade, leading to a reduction in the space between the articulating bones. X-rays are particularly useful for visualizing this narrowing, which reflects the early degenerative changes in the joint.

While osteophyte formation can be a later sign of osteoarthritis, it typically develops as the disease progresses. Soft tissue swelling might occur but is often better assessed using other imaging methods such as MRI or ultrasound rather than X-ray. The involvement of the metacarpals is not a defining characteristic for early osteoarthritis, as this condition can affect various joints and does not exclusively involve the metacarpals.

Therefore, joint space narrowing is a clear and significant indicator of early osteoarthritis when seen in radiographic images.