Pseudogout

Question 1

What crystal deposition causes pseudogout?

Answer 1

Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystal deposition in the synovium.

Question 2

What is the more accurate modern name for pseudogout?

Answer 2

Acute calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition disease.

Question 3

What type of arthritis process is pseudogout classified as?

Answer 3

A microcrystal synovitis.

Question 4

What is the strongest risk factor for developing pseudogout?

Answer 4

Increasing age.

Question 5

What should be suspected if pseudogout occurs in patients <60 years old?

Answer 5

An underlying metabolic or systemic risk factor.

Question 6

Which metabolic conditions predispose to pseudogout?

Answer 6

Haemochromatosis, hyperparathyroidism, low magnesium, low phosphate.

Question 7

Which endocrine/metabolic diseases increase pseudogout risk?

Answer 7

Acromegaly and Wilson’s disease.

Question 8

Which joints are most commonly affected in pseudogout?

Answer 8

Knee, wrist, and shoulder joints.

Question 9

How does acute pseudogout typically present clinically?

Answer 9

Acute monoarthritis with pain, swelling, erythema, and warmth.

Question 10

What is the characteristic synovial fluid finding in pseudogout?

Answer 10

Weakly positively birefringent, rhomboid-shaped CPPD crystals.

Question 11

What is the key X-ray feature of pseudogout?

Answer 11

Chondrocalcinosis.

Question 12

How does chondrocalcinosis of the knee appear on an X-ray?

Answer 12

Linear calcifications of the meniscus and articular cartilage.

Question 13

Why is joint aspiration essential in pseudogout assessment?

Answer 13

To exclude septic arthritis.

Question 14

What procedure is performed first when pseudogout is suspected?

Answer 14

Aspiration of joint fluid to rule out septic arthritis.

Question 15

Which medications are used to treat acute pseudogout?

Answer 15

NSAIDs or steroids (intra-articular, intramuscular, or oral).

Question 16

Which steroid route can be used for pseudogout management besides oral therapy?

Answer 16

Intra-articular or intramuscular steroid injections.