Is Chondrocalcinosis the same as pseudogout?

Chondrocalcinosis is characterized by acute or chronic synovitis and precipitation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the joint space. It differs from gout, in which urate crystals are precipitated—hence the term pseudogout.

What triggers pseudogout?

Pseudogout develops when deposits of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals build up in the cartilage (tissue that protects your bones) of a joint. The cause of this buildup is often unknown. The crystals are then released into the fluid in your joint. This causes joint pain and swelling.

How do you confirm pseudogout?

Pseudogout cannot be diagnosed simply from a blood test. An X-ray of the joint can be taken to look for the presence of calcium containing crystals located within the cartilage. To diagnose the condition, fluid is removed from the inflamed joint and analyzed under a microscope.

What foods trigger pseudogout?

In the case of gout and pseudogout which are affected by the metabolic factor of the body, it is best to avoid high-purine food like red meat and shellfish. Drinking beer and soda can also elevate the level of uric acid which may worsen the pain and discomfort in joints.

When to go to the doctor for pseudogout?

Make an appointment with your doctor if you have sudden, intense joint pain and swelling. Pseudogout has been linked to the presence of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals within the affected joint. These crystals become more numerous as people age, appearing in nearly half the population older than age 85.

How is pseudogout similar to gout and what causes it?

Also called calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease or CPPD, the common term “pseudogout” was coined for the condition’s similarity to gout. Crystal deposits within a joint cause both conditions, although the type of crystal differs for each condition.

How is pseudogout related to degenerative arthritis in the elderly?

Pseudogout is primarily caused by the precipitation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals developing within a joint space. Pseudogout has sometimes been referred to as calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease or CPPD. Pseudogout is clearly related to aging as it is more common in the elderly and is associated with degenerative arthritis.

How are blood tests used to diagnose pseudogout?

Blood tests can check for problems with your thyroid and parathyroid glands, as well as for a variety of mineral imbalances that have been linked to pseudogout. Your doctor may withdraw a sample of the fluid from your affected joint with a needle to test for the presence of crystals.