Pseudogout - Chondrocalcinosis

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This is a disease in which calcium pyrophosphate crystals are deposited in the cartilage of the joints. The cause is generally unknown, although it is known that it has an associated genetic origin and that there are conditions that may trigger it and that are likely to be associated. In the majority of cases, there are no symptoms. If there are any, they are characterized by acute episodes of arthritis with heat, flushing and increased articular volume. It is diagnosed by taking a detailed medical history, examining the joint and after obtaining a sample of joint fluid showing the existence of calcium pyrophosphate crystals. Treatment is based on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids and/or colchicine, in addition to the removal of crystals by fine-needle aspiration of joint fluid and sometimes surgical treatment.
Bibliographic references
  1. Michael A Becker, Lawrence M Ryan. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition (CPPD) disease. UpToDate. Jul 14, 2015.
  2. Michael A Becker, Lawrence M Ryan. Pathogenesis and etiology of calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition (CPPD) disease. UpToDate. Sep 10, 2015.
  3. Michael A Becker, Lawrence M Ryan. Treatment of calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition (CPPD) disease. UpToDate. Sep 22, 2016.
  4. Zhang W, Doherty M, Bardin T, et al. European League Against Rheumatism recommendations for calcium pyrophosphate deposition. Part I: terminology and diagnosis. Ann Rheum Dis 2011; 70:563.
  5. Rosenthal AK, Ryan LM. Crystal arthritis: calcium pyrophosphate deposition-nothing 'pseudo' about it! Nat Rev Rheumatol 2011; 7:257.
  6. Reginato AJ. Gota y otras artropatías microsalinas. Harrison. Manual de Medicina. 16º edición. 849-850.
Author
Dr. Elvira Moreno
Copyright
© TeckelMedical 2026

Symptoms

    Pain in a single joint


    Swollen knee


    Swollen joint is painful to move


    Knee pain


    Swollen limb

Symptoms to watch out for

Pain that does not subside with analgesics.
Fever (temperature higher than 100.4 ºF)

Self-care

Take over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.
Get regular physical activity at least 3 times a week that is appropriate for your age and physical condition.
Apply local cold to the injured area 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.
Eat a balanced diet: increase consumption of fruits, vegetables, and white meats, and reduce consumption of fatty and fried foods.
Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.
Wear sport shoes that support the arch of the foot.