bone, joint, and muscle disorders
Calcium Pyrophosphate (CPP) Arthritis
Introduction
Calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) arthritis (previously called pseudogout) is a disorder caused by deposits of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the joint cartilage, leading to intermittent attacks of painful joint inflammation similar to gout or a chronic arthritis similar to rheumatoid arthritis. Crystals accumulate in the fluid and cartilage of the joints, and cause varying degrees of inflammation and tissue damage. The diagnosis is confirmed by finding CPP crystals in joint fluid. Treatment is with medications to relieve the pain and swelling resulting from the inflammation, although none reduce the CPP crystal deposits in the joints. CPP arthritis usually occurs in older people and affects men and women equally. 