Chondrocalcinosis

  • Deposition of CPPD makes articular cartilage and fibrocartilage visible on radiographs
  • Seen in 6-11% of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism
  • Acute pain resembling gout
  • Joint aspiration shows pyrophosphate crystals in 25% cases
  • Feature of primary disease and not secondary to CKD
Imaging
  • Seen in radiograph of hand (triangular ligament), knees (cartilage and menisci) and symphysis pubis
  • Shoulder and hip less commonly involved
  • Chondrocalcinosis in symphysis pubis and nephrocalcinosis on radiograph is diagnostic of hyperparathyroidism
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Jacobson, Jon A., et al. “Radiographic evaluation of arthritis: degenerative joint disease and variations.” Radiology 248.3 (2008): 737-747.