Gout has become a common form of arthritis today. The disease can be painful to the extent where it can lead to immobility of the joints. Most common symptoms of the disease include pain and inflammation. But at times, the disease is confused with another medical condition known as
Pseudo Gout. Gout is caused by deposition of uric acid crystals whereas in Pseudogout the inflammation of the joints is caused by deposition of calcium pyrophosphate crystals. Pseudogout has many features that distinguish it from the true Gout. Most common of these include:
- A Gout attack mainly affects the big toe at the first instance but on the other hand pseudogout can primarily develop in a wrists, knees, ankles, and even elbows.
- Pseudogout is popularly known as CPPD or calcium pyrophosphate deposition disease. On the other hand, Gout is caused by deposition of monosodium urate monohydrate crystals.
- Whereas true Gout can affect anybody from any age group, pseudogout typically in adults with advanced age and targets their knee joints.
- The main reason behind the development of pseudogout is dehydration that may result as an aftermath of hospitalizations or surgery. On the other hand, Gout has variety of factors responsible for its development.
- Gout is the oldest form of arthritis whereas pseudogout got recognized as a distinct disease in 1962.
Both Gout and pseudogout are common forms of arthritis these days. Treatment of pseudogout is aimed to provide the patient with relief from inflammation and pain. Local application of ice and resting the affected joint are the common measures of help. Most common medications for the treatment include antiinflammatory medications like ibuprofen. Often times, cortisone is injected to the inflamed and painful joint and oral colchicine is also utilized for management. Small daily doses of colchicine are commonly recommended for long term management of the
Pseudo Gout. It helps delay the onset of symptoms. In pseudogout, the crystals are formed in the fluid that lubricates the linings of the joints which is the main reason behind the patient experiencing pain and inflammation. The exact etiology behind the formation of crystals that led to development of pseudogout is yet unknown. Most of the patients who experience pain and inflammation are confused about the onset of Gout or pseudogout. It is best to seek advice of your primary care physician to get the accurate diagnosis. Most commonly, the pseudogout crystals can be easily recognized on an x-ray film whereas deep study of the crystals is required for true Gout patients. On detailed investigation, Gout crystals can be identified as needle like structures whereas pseudogout crystals come in the shape of rhomboid. A microscopic examination of the joint aspiration can help make a definitive diagnosis. Both these medical conditions have different causes, however, the clear reason for development of pseudogout is yet now known. NSAIDs are commonly used to treat pain and inflammation in both the conditions. In order to keep the diseases at bay, it is best to avoid alcohol, quit smoking, and intake of fatty foods. Introducing light exercise in the daily life can help with joint mobilization and adds to the endurance as well. Ample fluid intake can vastly help excrete toxins from the body. By these preventative measures, both Gout and pseudogout can be kept at bay. For those who are beginning to experience pain and inflammation, it is important to consult a good rheumatologist to seek an effective treatment.