Chondrocalcinosis

Chondrocalcinosis is a condition in which calcium salts (mainly calcium pyrophosphate) are deposited in the cartilage tissue of the joints. This leads to hardening and degeneration of the articular cartilage.

The reasons for the development of chondrocalcinosis can be different:

1. Metabolic disorders - gout, hyperparathyroidism, hemochromatosis

2. Endocrine diseases - hypothyroidism, diabetes mellitus

3. Inflammatory joint diseases - rheumatoid arthritis, infectious arthritis

4. Injuries and degenerative changes in joints

5. Idiopathic chondrocalcinosis (cause unknown)

Diagnosis is based on the results of radiography of the joints, which identifies foci of cartilage calcification. Treatment depends on the cause of the disease and is aimed at relieving inflammation, normalizing metabolism, reducing pain and improving joint function. Severe degenerative changes may require surgical treatment.

Chondrocalcinosis: Basics of diagnosis and classification

Chondrocalcinosis, also known as calcium gout, is a condition in which articular cartilage becomes saturated with calcium pyrophosphate crystals. This condition can be detected by X-ray examination and is usually classified as a form of crystalline arthritis.

Chondrocalcinosis occurs as a result of the accumulation of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joints, especially in the area of ​​cartilage tissue. The reasons for the development of this condition are not fully understood, but it is believed that metabolic disorders, genetic factors and aging may play a role in its occurrence.

The main method for diagnosing chondrocalcinosis is x-ray examination, which allows you to visualize the presence of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joints. Radiographs typically show dense, contrast-positive deposits in the joint area. In addition, a joint fluid test may be performed to confirm the presence of calcium pyrophosphate crystals.

The classification of chondrocalcinosis is based on clinical and radiological signs. The main forms of chondrocalcinosis include:

1. Gouty chondrocalcinosis: This variant of chondrocalcinosis is often associated with gout and presents with joint inflammation, tenderness, swelling, and limited mobility. X-rays reveal calcium pyrophosphate deposits in the joints.

2. Asymptomatic chondrocalcinosis: In this form of chondrocalcinosis there are no clinical symptoms or signs of joint inflammation. Detection occurs accidentally during an X-ray examination.

3. Pseudoreumatoid chondrocalcinosis: This variant presents with symmetrical joint involvement resembling rheumatoid arthritis. Calcium pyrophosphate crystals penetrate the joints and cause chronic inflammation.

Treatment of chondrocalcinosis is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing progression of the disease. Anti-inflammatory drugs such as nextendin and non-hormonal anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used to relieve pain and inflammation. In some cases, joint fluid drainage or surgery may be required to remove calcium pyrophosphate crystals.

In conclusion, chondrocalcinosis is a condition in which the articular cartilage becomes saturated with calcium pyrophosphate crystals. This condition can be detected by X-ray examination and classified as calcium gout. Diagnosis is based on radiological features and classification is based on clinical and radiological features. Treatment is aimed at relieving symptoms and preventing progression of the disease.