Crystal Arthropathies Flashcards
What is gout?
An erosive inflammatory arthritis caused by monosodium urate deposition
What are the symptoms of acute gout?
Abrupt onset
Excruciating pain - no bedsheets
What is a feature of chronic gout?
Gouty trophi
What investigation is seen in gout?
Negatively birefringent needle shaped crystals
What is the management of acute gout?
NSAIDs (naproxen, diclofenac)
Steroids can only be given if septic arthritis has been ruled out
What is the preventative management of gout?
Xanthine oxidase inhibitors given 1 week after acute attack
What is pseudogout?
An erosive inflammatory arthritis caused by calcium pyrophosphate crystal deposition
What is chondrocalcinosis?
Calcium pyrophosphate deposition in cartilage and other soft tissues in the absence of acute inflammation
What is the main symptom of pseudogout?
Monoarthritis
What investigation is seen in pseudogout?
Positively birefringent rhomboid shaped crystals
How is pseudogour managed?
NSAIDs or colchicine
Steroids can be given once septic arthritis has been rule out
What is Milwaukee shoulder?
Hydroxyapatite deposition in the shoulder joint
How is Milwaukee shoulder managed?
NSAIDs
Intra-articular steroid injections
Physio and surgery
