Pseudogout (cont.)
What are symptoms of pseudogout?
Pseudogout can result in arthritis of a number of joints but
commonly
involves the knees, wrists, shoulders, hips, and/or ankles. Pseudogout
usually
affects only one or a few joints at a time. The
"attacks" of
joint inflammation, characterized by acute joint swelling, warmth, stiffness, and pain, may last for days to weeks and can resolve
spontaneously.
How does a doctor diagnose pseudogout?
Pseudogout is suggested when
abnormal calcifications are seen in the cartilage of joints on x-ray testing. These calcifications are referred to as chondrocalcinosis.
The arthritis of pseudogout is common in older adults, particularly in the
context of dehydration such as occurs with hospitalization or surgery.
The diagnosis of pseudogout is ultimately made when fluid from
a joint
is examined under a special microscope called a polarizing
microscope. With
this microscope, the calcium pyrophosphate crystals are
identified.
What are treatments for pseudogout?
The treatment of pseudogout is
directed toward stopping the inflammation in the joints. Local ice applications
and resting can help. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and others
are often
first drugs of choice.
Removing fluid containing the crystals from the joint
can reduce pain and help the inflammation to diminish more quickly. Cortisone
injected into an inflamed joint and oral colchicine
are also used.
Long-term prevention of recurrent pseudogout is often best
achieved with small daily doses of colchicine.
Next: What other conditions can accompany pseudogout? »
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