Pseudogout

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Shoulder joint inflammation

Pseudogout is a joint disease that can cause attacks of arthritis. Like gout, the condition involves the formation of crystals in the joints. But in pseudogout, the crystals are formed from a salt instead of uric acid.

Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease; CPPD disease

Pseudogout is caused by the collection of salt called calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD). The build up of this salt forms crystals in the joints. This leads to attacks of joint swelling and pain in the knees, wrists, ankles, and other joints.

Among older adults, pseudogout is a common cause of sudden (acute) arthritis in one joint.

Pseudogout mainly affects the elderly. However, it can sometimes affect younger patients who have conditions such as acromegaly, ochronosis, thyroid disease, hemochromatosis, Wilson disease, and parathyroid disease, which are known to increase risk.

Pseudogout can initially be misdiagnosed as gouty arthritis (gout), rheumatoid arthritis, or osteoarthritis because the symptoms are similar.

Review Date: 08/22/2006
Reviewed By: Lisa Christopher-Stine, M.D., M.P.H., Assistant Professor of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University,Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.