Pseudogout
What is it?
Pseudogout is a condition in which deposits of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joints cause attacks of arthritis. The calcium-containing deposits are called chondrocalcinosis. The symptoms are similar to gout in that the pain and swelling occurs in the joints around the elbows, wrists, ankles, knees, fingers, and toes. However, unlike gout, pseudogout can also affect the hips and shoulder joints, and attacks are not as
severe.
Who gets it?
Pseudogout usually occurs after the age of 60, and becomes increasingly more common with age. People who take diuretics to eliminate excess fluid, are frequently dehydrated, or are bedridden are at a higher risk for developing pseudogout. It affects both men and women
equally.
What causes it?
Pseudogout is caused by deposits of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in joint tissues. However, researchers are not quite sure why these crystals form. It may be more likely to occur in people with thyroid or parathyroid disorders. There also seems to be a genetic pattern because it has been seen in multiple family
members.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms range from pain, tenderness, redness, warmth, and swelling around the knees and other large joints, to lingering pain and stiffness in the joints of the arms and legs. People whose attacks are concentrated in the knee joint generally experience more severe pain that can make it difficult to participate in normal daily activities. Like gout, pseudogout can be a lifelong condition and can damage the affected
joints.
How is it diagnosed?
To diagnose pseudogout, your doctor will want to rule out gout or infection. He or she will listen to your symptoms and perform a physical examination of the affected area. A definite diagnosis is made by using a special needle to remove a sample of joint fluid. A doctor can see calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the fluid by looking at the sample under a special microscope. An x-ray of the affected joints can also show the calcium
crystals.
What is the treatment?
There are no treatments to dissolve the crystal deposits that cause pseudogout. Treatment focuses on relieving the pain by controlling the joint inflammation and on preventing joint damage. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, or indomethacin, are available over-the-counter and are effective in relieving pain and swelling. If you cannot take these types of drugs because you have a peptic ulcer or kidney disease, your doctor may recommend another anti-inflammatory drug called colchicine. It has also been very effective in relieving pseudogout, but can cause diarrhea and other side effects while you are taking the drug. People with repeated, severe attacks may need to take colchicine everyday. Sometimes, corticosteroids such as prednisone and adrenocorticotropic hormone can be injected directly into the joint to quickly stop the inflammation. Corticosteroids can also be taken orally, but are never used for more than a few days to avoid side effects. A specialist called a rheumatologist may be consulted to determine how much joint damage has been caused by the crystal deposits. Applying a cold compress to the painful joint and limiting movement during an attack may also provide some
relief.
Self-care tips
If you suffer from pseudogout, follow your doctor's recommended treatment plan. Drink plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration and, if possible, avoid diuretics for treatment of high blood pressure.
This information has been designed as a comprehensive and quick reference
guide written by our health care reviewers. The health information written
by our authors is intended to be a supplement to the care provided by your
physician. It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for
professional medical advice.
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