Definition

Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate deposition disease (CPPD) is a build up of calcium crystals in the joints. These crystals cause inflammation in the joints, which causes arthritis like conditions known as:

• Pseudoosteoarthritis
• Pseudogout
• Pseudorheumatoid arthritis

Arthritis of the Knee

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Causes  ^

It is not known what causes these calcium pyrophosphates to form. Genetics appear to play a role since it may run in families.

Risk Factors  ^

Older adults are at increased risk of getting CPPD. Other factors include:

• Family members with CPPD
• Previous joint damage
• Osteoarthritis
• Hypothyroidism—an underactive thyroid
• Hemochromatosis—excess iron storage
• Overactive parathyroid glands
• Hypercalcemia—excess calcium in the blood
• Low magnesium levels in the blood

Symptoms  ^

In most cases, CPPD does not lead to symptoms. When symptoms occur, they may come and go in acute attacks called flare-ups. They may get worse over 6-24 hours and last for 5-12 days. The frequency of flare-ups may increase with age.

Pseudoosteoarthritis symptoms are the most common type, especially in the knee. Symptoms may be on both sides of the body, but are generally worse on one side. Pseudoosteoarthritis may cause:

• Joint degeneration that worsens over time
• Joint misalignment and deformity
• Periodic swelling may be seen in chronic cases

Pseudogout symptoms occur more frequently in the knee, but can occur in other joints as well. There may be periods of time when there are no symptoms. Attacks of pseudogout may be spontaneous, or may be brought on by surgery or illness. Pseudogout may cause:

• Sudden, intense pain in one joint
• Warmth, redness, and swelling
• Fever
• Joint damage from the breakdown of cartilage, which can lead to chronic pain

Pseudorheumatoid arthritis symptoms occur least frequently and affect both sides of the body. Pseudorheumatoid arthritis may cause:

• Joint swelling
• Morning stiffness in the joints
• Fatigue
• Joint deformities

Diagnosis  ^

You will be asked about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Tests can be used to diagnose CPPD, or to rule out other conditions.

Your bodily fluids may be tested. This can be done with:

• Synovial fluid analysis—taken from the joint with a needle
• Blood tests

Images may be needed of your bodily structures. This can be done with:

• X-ray
• MRI scan
• Ultrasound

Treatment  ^

There is no cure for CPPD and nothing is available to dissolve the crystal deposits that already exist.

Treatment of CPPD is focused on managing the discomfort during flare-ups. Without treatment, the pain and discomfort of CPPD will go away on its own within days to weeks.

Talk with your doctor about the best treatment plan for you. Rest, ice, and elevation may help relieve some pain. Other treatment options may include:

Procedures

Additional procedures may be needed if home care and medications are not effective. Additional procedures may include:

• Corticosteroid shots—injected directly into the affected joint to decrease inflammation
• Arthrocentesis—to remove excess fluid and crystals
• Surgery—to repair or replace any damaged joints

Steroids Injected into Joint

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Prevention  ^

There are no current guidelines to prevent CPPD because the cause is not clear.