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- $Unique_ID{BRK02350}
- $Pretitle{}
- $Title{What Is the Pseudogout or False Gout?}
- $Subject{false gout pseudogout chondrocalcinosis calcifications joint
- cartilage deposits cppd calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate lubricates joints
- synovial fluid colchicine swelling corticosteroid indomethacin ill defined
- symptoms symptom knee knees ankle ankles calcification deposit fluids swell
- swells}
- $Volume{N-17}
- $Log{}
-
- Copyright (c) 1992,1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
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- What Is the Pseudogout or False Gout?
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- QUESTION: Is there a condition that looks and acts like gout, but really
- isn't? I think it is called "false gout" and I would like to learn more about
- it. Can you help me, please?
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-
- ANSWER: Yes, there is a condition sometimes known as "pseudogout" or "false
- gout" as you will have it. Actually it's a joint disease that may show itself
- in many ways, frequently with painful attacks that very much resemble those of
- gout. Its also know in medical circles as "chondrocalcinosis" which can be
- translated as "calcifications in the joint cartilage". Actually these
- deposits may be seen on x-ray, and help make the diagnosis. The
- calcifications are composed of the substance CPPD (calcium pyrophosphate
- dihydrate), and crystals of this chemical may be contained in the fluid that
- lubricates the joints (synovial fluid). By checking the fluid under the
- microscope for the presence of these crystals, a diagnosis of pseudogout is
- possible. The cause of the condition is unknown, affecting both sexes about
- equally and generally coming on late in life.
- While gout attacks the big toe in its most common form, pseudogout shows
- a preference for the knee and other larger joints. When acute attacks occur,
- they may be treated with colchicine, a medication which is also effective in
- treating gout. When there is joint swelling during the attack, the liquid
- should be drained by tapping the knee with a hypodermic syringe and needle,
- and then injecting corticosteroid (cortisone-like medication) back into the
- joint to help reduce the inflammation. Oral medications, such as
- indomethacin, are also helpful in treating this painful condition, and the
- outlook for the patient usually is excellent.
-
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- The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
- the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
- doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
- problem.
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