Pseudogout: symptoms, causes, treatment

Definition

What is a pseudogout?

Pseudogout is a form of arthritis characterized by sudden, painful swelling of the joints. This pain can last for days or weeks. The joint most often attacked is the knee. Other joints such as ankles, wrists, elbows and shoulders.

Pseudogout is similar to gout (uric acid), but the causes are different, therefore it is called pseudogout which means fake uric acid.

How common is pseudogout?

Pseudogout can affect all ages, but generally occurs in those who are over 60 years of age. According to research, half of pseudogout patients are older than 85 years. In addition, people who have joint injuries are prone to pseudogout.

Signs & symptoms

What are the signs and symptoms of pseudogout?

Symptoms of pseudogout include joint pain, swelling and warmth, and redness of the skin. The pain is constant and will get worse with movement. Activities such as walking, dressing, and lifting become difficult. Sometimes more than one joint is affected by pseudogout.

Attacks can happen at any time, but certain things like surgery or other illnesses can be the trigger. Symptoms usually disappear within a few days of treatment; if left untreated it will last for several weeks or more.

There may be other symptoms and signs not listed above. If you have concerns about the symptoms of this disease, please consult your doctor.

When should I see a doctor?

See your doctor if you develop sudden, high-intensity joint pain and swelling. The more you procrastinate, the worse your illness will be and can have long-term effects. Everyone's body is different. Always discuss with your doctor what is best for your current situation.

Cause

What causes pseudogout?

Pseudogout is caused by the presence of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the affected joint. These crystals become more numerous with age, appearing in nearly half the population of people over 85 years. However, most people who experience this buildup of crystals never experience pseudogout. It's not clear why some people develop symptoms and others don't. This disease is not caused by infection and is not contagious.

Risk factors

What increases my risk for pseudogout?

Factors that can increase your risk of developing pseudogout include:

Getting older. The risk of developing pseudogout increases with age
Joint injury. Injury to a joint, such as a serious injury or surgery, can increase your risk of getting pseudogout in that area
Genetic disorders. In some families, the tendency to develop pseudogout is due to heredity. They tend to develop pseudogout at a young age
Mineral imbalance. The risk of developing pseudogout is higher in those whose blood levels of calcium or iron are too excessive or contain too little magnesium
Other medical conditions. Pseudogout is also associated with an underactive thyroid gland or an overactive parathyroid gland

Drugs & Medicines

The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor.

What are my treatment options for pseudogout?

There is currently no way to get rid of the crystals that have accumulated in the joints, but medications can help with symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or indomethacin can be used for treatment.

Sometimes, sufferers need more potent anti-inflammatory drugs such as prednisone or colchicine.

Another treatment method is joint fluid collection followed by cortisone injection into the joint. Cortisone injections are usually the fastest in relieving pain and swelling.

What are the usual tests for pseudogout?

The signs and symptoms of pseudogout are similar to those of gout and other types of arthritis, so doctors need to perform the following tests to get a proper diagnosis.

Laboratory tests: Blood tests can reveal problems with the thyroid and parathyroid glands, as well as various mineral imbalances associated with pseudogout.

Take the joint fluid and observe the pseudogout crystals under a microscope.

Observation: It can be seen from the X-rays of the affected joints whether there is damage to the joints and a buildup of crystals in cartilage.