Objective:To evaluate the function of inflammation index in osteoarthritis by continuous dynamic observation. Methods:Seventy New Zealand white rabbits were randomly and equally divided into an osteoarthritis group and a normal control group. Osteoarthritis was induced by injecting 0.5 ml of 2% papain into left knee joints of rabbit,and the same volume of sterile saline solution was injected into left knee joints control group. The serum IL-1β,TNF-α and IL-6 levels were detected on the 1,2,4,6,8,10 and 12 week after injection. Then the rabbits were sacrificed and the knee joints were harvested and studied in pathohistological as well as Mankin scores. Results:Compared with the control group, degenerated changes were observed in OA group, such as thinner articular cartilage, fibrillation and destroyed cartilage matrix,as well as inflammation, proliferation and degeneration of the synovial tissue. All these symptoms got worse with prolonged observation time. The serum IL-1β,TNF-α and IL-6 levels increased in OA group,which were coincided with Mankin scores. Conclusion:Serum IL-1β,TNF-α and IL-6 levels increased with OA process and indicated the progression of disease.