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 induced arthritis is a relatively common condition that involves deposition of crystals in joints and soft tissues. A variety of crystals can deposit in and around joints and soft tissues, resulting in articular and periarticular inflammation. Monosodium urate (MSU) and calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) are the most commonly involved crystals in the pathogenesis of crystal induced arthropathies. Other rare types of crystal arthropathy include hydroxyapatite crystal deposition disease.

Gout and pseudogout can manifest with similar symptoms, and cannot be distinguished clinically. Synovial fluid analysis by aspiration of the involved joint is essential to pinpoint the diagnosis. Treatment for acute attacks in crystal arthitis 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.