Patterns of radiographic abnormalities associated with basic calcium phosphate and calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystal deposition in the knee

Abstract

Radiographs and synovial fluids from 66 knees representing 59 patients with symptomatic osteoarthritis were evaluated to determine the pattern of radiographic abnormalities associated with basic calcium phosphate (BCP), calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD), or both crystals together. Crystals were found in 71% of fluids. In general, CPPD crystals correlated with patient age, while BCP crystals correlated with joint degeneration. Synovial fluid BCP and CPPD crystals were found together more often than either alone. Joint compartment narrowing and osteophytes in three compartments are often associated with BCP crystals.