MyMediktor - Pseudogout - Chondrocalcinosis

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Condition in which calcium pyrophosphate crystals are deposited in the cartilage of the joints.

The cause is generally unknown, although it is thought to be of genetic origin and there are diseases that can trigger it.

In most cases there are no symptoms; if there are symptoms, they are characterised by acute episodes of joint inflammation with a warm area, redness and increased joint volume.

It is diagnosed by taking a detailed clinical history, examining the joint and taking a joint fluid sample that shows calcium pyrophosphate crystals.

Treatment is based on non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids and/or colchicine and removal of the crystals by aspiration of the joint fluid. In severe cases, surgery may be required.

Bibliographic references

Michael A Becker, Lawrence M Ryan. Clinical manifestations and diagnosis of calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition (CPPD) disease. UpToDate. Jul 14, 2015.
Michael A Becker, Lawrence M Ryan. Pathogenesis and etiology of calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition (CPPD) disease. UpToDate. Sep 10, 2015.
Michael A Becker, Lawrence M Ryan. Treatment of calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition (CPPD) disease. UpToDate. Sep 22, 2016.
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.
Rosenthal AK, Ryan LM. Crystal arthritis: calcium pyrophosphate deposition-nothing 'pseudo' about it! Nat Rev Rheumatol 2011; 7:257.
Reginato AJ. Gota y otras artropatías microsalinas. Harrison. Manual de Medicina. 16º edición. 849-850.

Author

Dr. Elvira Moreno

Copyright

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 doesn't subside with analgesics

Fever (temperature higher than 38 ºC)

Self-care

Consume over-the-counter pain relievers or anti-inflammatories.

Engage in regular physical activity, adapted to age and physical condition, at least 3 times a week.

Apply local cold in the area of the lesion 3 times a day to reduce inflammation.

Maintain a balanced diet: increase fruit, vegetable, and white meat consumption and reduce the intake of fatty meals and fritters.

Relative rest, rest until symptoms subside.

Wear sports shoes that sustains the arch of the foot.