What is Pseudogout?
Pseudogout, also called calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease (CPPD), is a joint disease that can cause episodes of joint inflammation similar to gout, with crystal formation inside the joints.
What causes Pseudogout?
Pseudogout is caused by a group of salts called calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD). The accumulation of these salts leads to crystal formation in the joints, which causes episodes of joint swelling and pain in the knees, wrists, ankles, and other joints.
Who is most at risk for Pseudogout?
Pseudogout primarily affects the elderly. However, it may sometimes affect younger patients who have conditions such as thyroid disease, hemochromatosis, and Wilson’s disease.
What are the symptoms of Pseudogout?
Pseudogout most often affects the knees, along with other joints that may be affected including the ankles, hands, wrists, elbows, and shoulders. The patient may experience swelling in the affected joints along with severe pain.
What factors increase the risk of Pseudogout?
Several factors increase the risk of pseudogout, including: 1. Advanced age. 2. Joint injuries. 3. Hereditary predisposition, where susceptibility to CPPD crystals can be passed through genes across generations of the same family. 4. Excess iron storage in the body (hemochromatosis).
How is Pseudogout treated?
When calcium crystals cause swelling and tissue damage, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) may be taken. For severe pain and swelling, fluid is removed from the affected joint. The doctor may also inject the affected joint with a corticosteroid, which is an effective anti-inflammatory medication.
