Hydroxyapatite Crystal
Disease
Medical Author: William C. Shiel Jr., MD, FACP, FACR
What is hydroxyapatite?
Hydroxyapatite is the major component, and an essential
ingredient, of normal bone and teeth. It is hydroxyapatite that
makes up bone mineral and the matrix of teeth.
What are hydroxyapatite crystals?
Hydroxyapatite molecules can group together (crystallize) to form
microscopic clumps, called hydroxyapatite crystals.
Tiny crystals of hydroxyapatite sometimes form in or around joints
and can cause inflammation of joints and tissues around the joints,
such as tendons and ligaments. They have been described particularly
as a cause of rotator cuff inflammation of the shoulder.
The inflammation caused by hydroxyapatite crystals has been
referred to as hydroxyapatite crystal disease.
Is hydroxyapatite crystal disease the same as gout or
pseudogout?
No. These conditions are similar in that they are all caused by the inflammation that results from the body's reaction to crystals. However, hydroxyapatite crystals are distinctly different from the
crystals of pseudogout or gout. While hydroxyapatite crystals can
sometimes also be found in the company of the calcium pyrophosphate
crystals characteristic of pseudogout, these are quite different
types of crystals.
How are hydroxyapatite crystals identified?
Sometimes, hydroxyapatite crystals can be seen clumped in the
fluid of a joint that has developed arthritis. The crystals are
usually so small as to be invisible under a regular microscope and
thus require a special (electron) microscope for identification.
How is hydroxyapatite crystal disease treated?
The treatment of the inflammation caused by hydroxyapatite
crystals includes rest, cold application, and medications to reduce
inflammation. Cortisone-related medications injected into inflamed
tissues can also sometimes help decrease inflammation and thereby
relieve pain.
- Hydroxyapatite is an essential mineral of normal bone.
- Crystals of hydroxyapatite deposited in and about the joints
cause inflammation.
- Inflammation and pain are part of hydroxyapatite crystal
disease.
- This disease is distinct and different from gout and
pseudogout.
- Treatment includes measures to reduce inflammation and
pain.
Last Editorial Review: 2/27/2008
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