Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease; CPPD disease
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. Pseudogout is caused by
the collection of salt called calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate
(CPPD). The buildup 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: Because the
symptoms are similar, pseudogout can be misdiagnosed as: © 2011
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