Crystal Arthritis

Gout is a true crystal deposition disease. It can be defined as the pathological reaction of the joint or periarticular tissues to the presence of monosodium urate monohydrate (MSUM) crystals. Pseudogout results in CPPD crystal deposition in hyaline and fibrocartilage of joints which leads to chondrocalcinosis. Sporadic, familial and metabolic disease-associated forms are recognised.