Definition
It is a crystal deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dehydrate (CPPD) in cartilage (chondrocalcinosis). It is a common age associated phenomenon (>55) that particularly targets the knee .
Aetiology (Causes)
It is idiopathic, it can occur with certain metabolic diseases e.g hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease, hyperparathyroidism and chronic renal failure patients under regular hemodialysis .
Clinical picture
There are different clinical patterns
1- Mono arthritis.
• Especially in the knee. } Attacks of pseudogout
• Male = Female, old age.
2- Pseudo-rheumatoid arthritis with polyarthritis for months.
3- Pseudo-osteoarthritis.
4- Pseudo-neuropathic with severe destruction (charcot joint like) .
5- A symptomatic (common).
• ESR +++ - CRP +++
• TLC +++
• Examination of joint fluid crystals by polarizing microscopy.
• Intra articular corticosteroids if indicated.
It is a crystal deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dehydrate (CPPD) in cartilage (chondrocalcinosis). It is a common age associated phenomenon (>55) that particularly targets the knee .
Aetiology (Causes)
It is idiopathic, it can occur with certain metabolic diseases e.g hemochromatosis, Wilson's disease, hyperparathyroidism and chronic renal failure patients under regular hemodialysis .
Clinical picture
There are different clinical patterns
1- Mono arthritis.
• Especially in the knee. } Attacks of pseudogout
• Male = Female, old age.
2- Pseudo-rheumatoid arthritis with polyarthritis for months.
3- Pseudo-osteoarthritis.
4- Pseudo-neuropathic with severe destruction (charcot joint like) .
5- A symptomatic (common).
Diagnosis of Pyrophosphate arthropathy
• X ray : calcification of articular cartilage.
• ESR +++ - CRP +++
• TLC +++
• Examination of joint fluid crystals by polarizing microscopy.
Treatment
• NSAID• Intra articular corticosteroids if indicated.