In this Article

• What is pseudogout?
• What are symptoms of pseudogout?
• How does a doctor diagnose pseudogout?
• What are treatments for pseudogout?
• What other conditions can accompany pseudogout?
• Are there special circumstances that can promote attacks of pseudogout?
• Pseudogout At A Glance
• Pseudogout Glossary
• Pseudogout Index
• Find a local Rheumatologist in your town

What other conditions can accompany pseudogout?

Pseudogout can occur along with aging, be inherited, or be associated with hemophilia, hemochromatosis, ochronosis, amyloidosis, or hormonal disorders (such as hyperparathyroidism and hypothyroidism). These illnesses are considered in the initial evaluation of a patient with pseudogout.

Are there special circumstances that can promote attacks of pseudogout?

Arthritis attacks of pseudogout can be precipitated by dehydration and not infrequently follow surgical procedures in elderly patients. Patients with known pseudogout should stay well hydrated before and after operations.

Pseudogout At A Glance

• Pseudogout is caused by crystals in a joint.
• Pseudogout causes arthritis (joint inflammation).
• Pseudogout can cause calcification of cartilage.
• The arthritis of pseudogout is diagnosed by detecting typical crystals in joint fluid.
• Treatment of pseudogout is directed at the inflammation.
• Pseudogout can be associated with other illnesses.

Reference:

Koopman, William, et al., eds. Clinical Primer of Rheumatology. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2003.

Kelley's Textbook of Rheumatology, W B Saunders Co, edited by Shaun Ruddy, et al., 2000.

American College of Rheumatology National Meeting, 2004.