What does osteophytosis refer to?

Osteophytosis refers specifically to abnormal bone growth in a joint, which typically manifests as the formation of bone spurs or osteophytes. These often occur in response to joint stress and are most commonly associated with osteoarthritis, a condition where the cartilage deteriorates over time. The presence of osteophytes can lead to pain and stiffness because they can encroach on surrounding tissues, including nerves and other bones.

The other options involve different aspects of joint health. For instance, the thinning of cartilage can lead to joint degeneration but does not directly describe osteophytosis. Increased joint mobility is generally considered a positive aspect of joint function, which does not relate to abnormal bone growth. Lastly, the development of bone infections pertains to conditions like osteomyelitis, which is entirely separate from what osteophytosis describes. Hence, understanding the nature of bone changes in osteophytosis highlights its context within joint diseases and the body's adaptive responses to mechanical stress.