Clinical and X-ray findings of sine syndrome in articular chondrocalcinosis

Abstract

Chondrocalcinosis is the disease caused by an abnormal accumulation of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the cartilage. The release of the crystals into the synovial space results in episodes of arthritis and secondary osteoarthritic changes. Chondrocalcinosis does not have a characteristic clinical presentation but rather typical radiological findings of calcifications of articular cartilages and ligaments. The pathognomonic sign is proof of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals with positive birefringence in polarized light. Chondrocalcinosis affects knees, shoulders, hip joints and elbows most frequently. Small joints are affected only rarely. Involvement of the axial skeleton is even rarer and usually develops in more advanced stages of chondrocalcinosis. However, literary sources have also presented several interesting cases of sporadic spine involvement in patients without the peripheral joints being affected. Chondrocalcinosis can be a rare cause of common symptoms and we have the chance to reveal their correct etiology only if we have a high degree of suspicion.