[Acute calcific periarthritis - a differential diagnosis of pyoarthrosis of the hand].

BACKGROUND

The acute calcific periarthritis is caused by hydroxyapatite deposits in the periarticular soft tissue.The symptoms resemble a pyoarthrosis, explaining high rates of misdiagnosis.

PATIENTS: Presented are the cases of a 45 and a 46 years old patient, who presented with acute onset of swelling, erythema, functional impairment and pain of the hand. Periarticular calcifications were identified radiologically.

RESULTS

The symptoms completely resolved in both patients within few days under conservative treatment.

CONCLUSION

The acute calcific periarthritis should be considered as a differential diagnosis of pyoarthrosis in the hand, especially if no suitable trauma preceeded. Usually conservative treatment with immobilization and antiphlogistic drugs rapidly leads to a complete remission.