Megakaryocytes Distribution and Their Presumable Role in Bone Homeostasis of Inflammatory Joint Disease

Inflammatory joint diseases are characterised by significant bone and cartilage destruction, leading to
disability and reduced life quality. Some of these illnesses have a systemic character which leads to
life-threatening conditions. The exact mechanisms that are involved in joint pathology are still not yet
known, as a variety of cell types are implicated in them. Increasing evidence shows that
megakaryocytes and platelets are key players in joint inflammation and bone remodeling, and in the
accompanying systemic disorders such as thrombocytosis. Here we summarise the available data on
the megakaryopoiesis, megakaryocyte distribution and discuss some aspects of their involvement in
inflammatory joint diseases.