Sportrelevante betekenis van chondrocalcinose en CPPD

After a volleyball-player visited the sports clinic at the University Medical Center in Utrecht (the Netherlands) with knee complaints, chondrocalcinosis was found on X-ray by coincidence. A literature survey was done to find out what was published about this subject. Chondrocalcinosis refers to typical calcifications of cartilage and collagen tissue on radiographs. It is often asymptomatic but can be associated with a variable clinical spectrum of acute or chronic inflammatory, degenerative and destructive joint manifestations. Calcium pyrophosphate deposition (CPPD) is used as the umbrella term for all instances of calcium pyrophosphate crystal occurrence. The sites most commonly affected are the knee, shoulder, ankle and wrist. Complaints like pain, stiffness, hydrops and a limited range of motion can inhibit satisfying sports performances. The prevalence of CPPD in the general population increases with age. Most cases are idiopathic, but early disease requires examination for electrolyte- or endocrine disorders or familial involvement. The definitive diagnosis is based on synovial fluid analysis, but also X-rays and ultrasonography correlate well and seem to be better applicable in daily practice. Treatment is primarily symptomatic; NSAIDs and intra-articular glucocorticosteroids are most useful. Colchicine is also effective in acute arthritis and it can diminish the number of attacks. In case of chondrocalcinosis, sports can be continued depending on the complaints. It is advised to reduce axial and torsional movements of the affected joints.