[Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition disease: a clinicopathologic analysis of 20 cases].

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the clinicopathologic features of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition disease (CPPD-CDD).

METHODS

The clinical and pathologic profiles were retrospectively analysed in 20 cases of CPPD-CDD.

RESULTS

CPPD-CDD was far more common in women, most frequently involving joints, especially the knees and presenting with various arthrisis. Abnormally calcified and the articular damages were characteristic features by imageing. Histologically, multifocal indigo granular calcinosis was seen in synovium and sometimes appeared as needle-shaped or rhomboid crystals, which characterized the CPPD.

CONCLUSIONS

Though clinical symptoms of CPPD are quite variable, the definite diagnosis can be made by the abnormal calcification and joint damage radiographically and the indigo CPPD crystals histopathologically.