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Pseudogout - Symptom

Alternative Names

Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease; CPPD disease

Symptoms:

Attacks of joint pain and fluid buildup in the joint, leading to joint swelling
Chronic (long-term) arthritis
No symptoms between attacks

Signs and tests:

An examination of joint fluid would show white blood cells and calcium pyrophosphate crystals.
Joint x-rays may show joint damage, calcification of cartilage, and calcium deposits in joint spaces.

Careful testing and analysis of crystals found in joints can help the doctor diagnose the condition. Fortunately, because most conditions involving joint pain are treated by the same medicines (such as steroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), an early mistaken diagnosis does not necessarily result in the wrong treatment.

Shoulder joint inflammation

Reviewed last on: 4/24/2008
Neil J. Gonter, M.D., Assistant Professor of Medicine, Columbia University, NY and private practice specializing in Rheumatology at Rheumatology Associates of North Jersey, Teaneck, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Goldman L, Ausiello DA. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007.

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