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Calcium Pyrophosphate Dihydrate Crystal Deposition Disease (CPPD) (Pseudo Gout)
What Is It?
What Causes It?
What Are the Effects?
How Is It Diagnosed?
Treatment Options
Resources and Suggestions
What Is It?
Calcium Pyrophosphate Dihydrate Crystal Deposition (CAL-see-um PIE-row-FOX-fate
DIE-high-drate DEH-poo-ZISH-un) is a condition that causes pain, redness, heat, and
swelling in one or more joints. Also referred to as Pseudo Gout or Chondrocalcinosis.
What Causes It?
It is caused by deposits of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in a joint, which
weaken the cartilage and cause it to break down more easily. The presence of these tiny
CPPD crystals in the joints, and the body's reaction to these crystals, creates
inflammation to attack the crystals. It is not known why the body forms these crystals,
but may be an abnormality in the cartilage cells or connective tissue. The cause also may
be a genetic tendency.
What Are the Effects?
The movement of the CPPD crystals into joints can cause sudden and severe pain in the
joint. Inflammation may occur causing redness, warmth and swelling of the joint. Over
time, damage may be done to the cartilage (which acts as a cushion between bones) allowing
bone to rub against bone.
How Is It Diagnosed?
- Detailed medical history
- Joint aspiration to check for crystals
- Joint X-rays to show crystals
- Blood tests to rule out other diseases such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis or
osteoarthritis
Treatment Options
- Exercise
- Medications: NSAIDs, Corticosteroids, Colchicine
- Rest
- Removing fluid and crystals
- Surgery (sometimes)
Resources and Suggestions
We Also Suggest:
- Consult your physician for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. Your local chapter can provide a listing of physicians who specialize in arthritis-related conditions.
- Learn to manage your condition -- get involved! Exciting events, volunteer activities and programs, such as the Arthritis Self-Help Course, support groups and exercise programs (consult your physician). Use the Chapter Locator to find activities near you.
- Arthritis Today magazine -- Search for more information or visit Your Arthritis Store to subscribe on-line!
- Your Arthritis Store -- books, newsletters, Arthritis Foundation membership, videos and more.
- Arthritis Today Drug Guide
- Alternative and Complementary Therapies
- Arthritis Today Supplement Guide
- Frequently asked questions about arthritis, treatments and coping skills.
- Arthritis in children, teens and young adults. Check out the information for parents and teachers, too!
- How to Care for Yourself
- Remember, you're not alone! Connect with other people on Message Boards.
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