Chondrocalcinosis is a condition that occurs when crystals of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate are deposited in the joints. It may affect more than one joint in the body at a time, causing pain and damage to the joint, according to Riverside Health System. Chondrocalcinosis most often affects the knee, wrist and the joint between the two halves of the pubic bones, called the pubic symphysis. Chondrocalcinosis is also called calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease and pseudogout.
Genetic Factors
The exact cause of chondrocalcinosis is unknown, but there may be a link to heredity. According to the Cleveland Clinic, chondrocalcinosis can run in families, so there is a suspected genetic link. Crystals of calcium pyrophosphate collect in the joints --- first in the cartilage, causing damage, and then into the synovial fluid. The joint becomes swollen and inflamed. Chondrocalcinosis causes symptoms similar to gout including periods of severe pain, swelling and debilitation that can last for weeks. The severe pain can be sudden with warmth, redness and tenderness surrounding the affected joint. It is possible for chondrocalcinosis to recur, similar to attacks of gout. Over time, it can lead to a more permanent form of arthritis.
Advancing Age
There is a clear link to increased deposition of crystals with advancing age. Chondrocalcinosis occurs more often in people over the age of 50 and can affect either sex. Approximately 3 percent of the population will develop chondrocalcinosis in their 60s, notes the American College of Rheumatology. Diagnosis of chondrocalcinosis is made through laboratory analysis of the joint fluid to identify the crystals. Joint fluid is removed through a procedure called arthrocentesis, using a needle and syringe inserted into the affected joint. Removing some of the fluid from the joint can help alleviate some of the pain. Blood tests may show an elevated white blood cell count, while an X-ray of the joint may show the deposits within the cartilage and joint fluid. Serum calcium is typically found to be within normal limits.
Risk Factors
There are some risk factors that predispose some people to develop chondrocalcinosis, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Dehydration, injury and having a joint surgery can cause an attack to occur. Conditions such as hyperparathyroidism, which causes elevated levels of calcium to circulate in the bloodstream, can be a risk factor. Chondrocalcinosis also seems to occur more often in those with hemochromatosis, a condition causing high levels of iron in the tissues. Hypomagnesemia, or low levels of magnesium, and hypophosphatasia, a deficiency of phosphatase, can also cause the crystals to accumulate in the joints. However, individuals who suffer from chondrocalcinosis may not have any of these conditions. Chondrocalcinosis also seems to affect joints already affected by osteoarthritis. Treatment of chondrocalcinosis consists of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen. Colchicine, a medication used to treat gout, can be effective. Injections of corticosteroids into the affected joints may also prove beneficial. Exercise and physical therapy can help keep the joint mobile.
