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What Are Calcium Pyrophosphate Crystals?
In some cases, however, too much pyrophosphate is produced or not enough is catalyzed.
Unfortunately, the resulting crystal buildup can result in significant symptoms developing.
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The sections below detail the most commonly seen problems that can occur as a result of this crystal buildup.
Pseudogout
Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease (CPPD) used to be referred to as pseudogout.
CPPDs symptoms closely mimic those ofgout, and the two conditions are often confused.
Typically, CPPD impacts only one joint, though in some cases multiple areas may be afflicted simultaneously.
Having no symptoms in spite of evidence of the disease on an X-ray is called asymptomatic CPPD.
Chondrocalcinosis
People who undergo chronic bouts of CPPD may eventually experience physical changes within their affected joints.
This process, calledchondrocalcinosis, refers to the hardening or calcification of the smooth cartilage tissue.
This process is known asosteoarthritis(OA).
In rarer cases, the joints in the spine may also be affected.
That said, there are several risk factors that can make CPPD more likely to occur.
One of the most common yet unavoidable risk factors is advanced age.
The most accurate diagnostic process is detailed below.
Laboratory Testing
Laboratory testing is needed to truly identify CPPD.
If the rhomboid-shaped calcium pyrophosphate crystals are present in the sample, then a positive diagnosis can be made.
Chondrocalcinosis is also commonly seen on the X-rays of individuals with CPPD.
Diagnosis Difficulties
Differentiating CPPD from other conditions can be extremely challenging.
The many similarities between these diagnoses make it difficult to identify CPPD based on symptoms alone.
The sections below detail the most commonly utilized and effective choices.
Icing the joint can also help alleviate any pain or swelling by reducing inflammation.
This can be done three or more times each day for 10 to 20 minutes per session.
This in turn can alleviate the pain associated with a CPPD flare-up.
Medication
Acute bouts of CPPD can be managed with several types of medication.
Taking control of your CPPD is the key to minimizing the impact it has on your daily life!
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