Pseudogout

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Diagnosis

A diagnosis of pseudogout is based on physical symptoms and medical tests. Other conditions (e.g., injury, infection, rheumatoid arthritis) must be ruled out. To confirm the diagnosis, the physician inserts a needle into the joint to obtain a sample of joint fluid, which is then analyzed under a microscope. Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystals have specific characteristics, including shape and color, upon microscopic evaluation. Evaluation of the joint fluid may also s...Read the full article