Pseudopodagra

The cause is calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joints (chondrocalcinosis). It is most commonly diagnosed after the age of 50, and the frequency increases with age. It can be congenital or acquired. In cases of congenital pseudogout, crystals form in young people, causing severe osteoarthritis. The cause is a mutation in the gene encoding the transmembrane inorganic pyrophosphate transporter. Secondary pseudogout can occur due to joint injuries, hyperparathyroidism, hemochromatosis, hypomagnesemia, and diabetes. It is not precisely known why crystals accumulate, but altered intercellular material enzyme activity has been identified. Therefore, pyrophosphatase is produced and breaks down, causing the formation of calcium crystals.

Source | Glossary of Most Commonly Used Biomedical Terms and Concepts | Lithuanian University of Health Sciences | Academician Professor Antanas Praškevičius, Professor Laima Ivanovienė