What is pseudogout?
Pseudogout is a type of arthritis that is characterized by the development of a painful swelling that occurs suddenly in one or more joints. It is also known as calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease (CPPD) because of the type of crystals that are deposited on the joint during the disease process.
Joints Commonly Affected by Pseudogout
Symptoms of Pseudogout
- Swelling
- Warmth
- Severe pain
Causes of Pseudogout
Risk Factors for Pseudogout
- Old age: Your risk for developing pseudogout increases as you grow older.
- Traumatic joint injury: Having sustained serious joint trauma or undergoing surgery increases your risk.
- Genetic predisposition: You may be at a higher risk for pseudogout if other members of your family have the condition.
- Mineral imbalance: High blood levels of calcium and iron, and low levels of magnesium increase your risk for pseudogout.
- Certain medical conditions: Pseudogout has been linked with the presence of an underactive thyroid gland or an overactive parathyroid gland.