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Pseudogout Crystal Identification

Inflammation caused by calcium pyrophosphate dehydrates (CPPS) crystals forming in the joint tissue or cartilage of a person is identified as pseudogout.

  1. Identification

    • For a physician to properly diagnose pseudogout, identification of CPPS crystals is necessary. This is done by drawing fluid from the inflamed area and examining the fluid under a microscope for crystal manifestation. X-ray can also be used to find calcification crystals in the cartilage.

    Symptoms

    • Along with inflammation, fever, pain and malaise are symptoms of pseudogout. Also, pseudogout crystals tend to form in larger joint areas such as the knee.

    Age

    • The forming of pseudogout crystals are commonly found in people over the age of 50. Younger people can get pseudogout, but the early onset is usually caused by previous trauma or surgery to the inflamed area.

    Cause

    • According to the University of Oklahoma, pseudogout crystals form for no apparent reason. However, the condition has been associated with disorders of the thyroid and family histories with enzyme deficiencies.

    Treatment

    • Most physicians prescribe an oral anti-inflammatory or steroid injection. This helps shorten the attacks and lessen the pain. However, there is no treatment to dissolve the crystal deposits (as of 2010), so this is only temporary relief.

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