What condition is characterized by chronic joint pain and inflammation?

The condition characterized by chronic joint pain and inflammation is arthritis. Arthritis encompasses a variety of inflammatory joint diseases that can lead to pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. The most common types include osteoarthritis, which is related to wear and tear of the joints, and rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune condition causing chronic inflammation.

Osteoporosis, another option, primarily involves bone density loss and does not specifically cause joint inflammation or pain, though it may lead to fractures that can impact joint function. Degenerative joint disease, often synonymous with osteoarthritis, focuses more on the degradation of cartilage and joint structure rather than generalized inflammation. Carcinoma, a type of cancer, does not relate directly to joint issues; while bone cancers or metastases can affect the joints, they do not represent a chronic inflammatory joint condition. Thus, arthritis is the most appropriate choice for describing chronic joint pain and inflammation.