Crystal arthritis

Crystal arthritis Main page
Patient Information Gout (patient information) Pseudogout (patient information)
Overview
Causes
Classification Gout Pseudogout
Differentiating Gout from Pseudogout

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] ; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Aditya Ganti M.B.B.S. [2]

Overview

Crystal deposition disease is a relatively common condition. Gout and CPPD disease are the most common of these disorders, but practitioners need to be aware of the presence of other types of crystal arthropathy, such as hydroxyapatite crystal deposition disease. In this case, crystals might not be seen on classic synovial analysis and some may require special staining.

Gout and pseudogout can manifest with similar symptoms, and their clinical presentation might not be distinguishable; thus, it is essential to aspirate the affected joint or bursa for synovial fluid and crystal analysis whenever possible. Cell count, Gram stain, and culture, in the right clinical setting, should be sought.

Once the diagnosis is made, treatment for acute attack should be commenced using the least toxic agent or the one that carries least risk for the patient. Treatment should be initiated while taking into consideration other comorbid conditions, such as renal disease, gastric disease, organ transplant, drug interactions, and others, because these will affect the choice of therapy. In the case of gout, once the acute disease has resolved, the patient should be followed to assess for indications and need for hypouricemic therapy.Crystal-induced arthritis are a group of disorders that involve deposition of crystals in joints and soft tissues, resulting in articular and periarticular inflammation and injury. Two types of crystals — monosodium urate (MSU) and calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) — are commonly involved in gout and CPPD disease, which are described in this chapter.