Pseudo-gout

Abstract

Pseudo-gout is one form of a calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease in which the elderly and those after a traumatic or surgical injury to the joint are mostly affected. Other metabolic disorders such as hyperparathyroidism and hypomagnesemia can also contribute to its existence. It is diagnosed by finding rhomboid crystals that are positive birefringent under polarized light and other methods such as ultra-sound, x-ray and CT. Treatment focuses on the anti-inflammatory effect using drugs like NSAIDs, Colchicine, glucocorticoids and alternatives such as hydroxychloroquine, methotrexate and anakinra.