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Other Rheumatic Conditions

Calcium Pyrophosphate Deposition Disease (CPPD / Pseudogout)

What is it?

  • CPPD occurs when calcium crystals deposit in the joints, causing inflammation.
  • It mimics gout or osteoarthritis but is caused by calcium pyrophosphate (not uric acid).

Common sites:

  • Knees
  • Wrists
  • Shoulders

Symptoms:

  • Sudden, painful joint swelling
  • Warmth, redness, tenderness – similar to gout

Diagnosis:

  • Joint fluid analysis showing calcium crystals
  • X-rays may show chondrocalcinosis (calcium in cartilage)

Treatment:

  • NSAIDs
  • Colchicine
  • Steroids (oral or joint injection)
Marfan Syndrome (Connective Tissue Disorder)

What is it?

  • A genetic connective tissue disorder affecting joints, eyes, heart, and blood vessels

Features:

  • Tall and thin build with long fingers (arachnodactyly)
  • Joint hypermobility
  • Curved spine
  • Lens dislocation in the eyes
  • Aortic enlargement, which can be life-threatening if untreated

Diagnosis:

  • Clinical features + genetic testing
  • Heart scan (echocardiogram)

Treatment:

  • Regular monitoring of the aorta
  • Beta blockers to reduce stress on the heart
  • Physical activity guidance
Vasculitis

What is it?

  • Group of diseases where the immune system attacks blood vessels

Types:

  • Giant Cell Arteritis (affects older adults – can cause blindness)
  • Granulomatosis with Polyangiitis (GPA)
  • Microscopic Polyangiitis
  • Behçet’s disease (also causes mouth/genital ulcers)

Symptoms:

  • Fatigue, weight loss, fever
  • Skin rashes
  • Nerve pain or weakness
  • Kidney inflammation
  • Nosebleeds or sinus issues

Diagnosis:

  • Blood tests (ANCA, ESR, CRP)
  • Imaging
  • Biopsy

Treatment:

  • Steroids
  • Immunosuppressants
  • Biologic therapies
Sjögren’s Syndrome

What is it?

  • An autoimmune disease where the body attacks salivary and tear glands

Symptoms:

  • Dry eyes, dry mouth
  • Joint pain
  • Fatigue
  • Sometimes affects kidneys, lungs, or nerves

Diagnosis:

  • Schirmer’s test (tear production)
  • ANA, anti-Ro/La antibodies
  • Lip biopsy

Treatment:

  • Eye drops, saliva substitutes
  • Hydroxychloroquine
  • Immunosuppressants if organs are involved
Systemic Sclerosis (Scleroderma)

What is it?

  • Autoimmune disease causing skin thickening and organ fibrosis

Types:

  • Limited cutaneous – affects hands, face
  • Diffuse cutaneous – may affect lungs, kidneys, heart

Symptoms:

  • Skin tightening
  • Raynaud’s phenomenon (cold-induced color change in fingers)
  • Heartburn, swallowing difficulties
  • Shortness of breath

Treatment:

  • Depends on organs involved
  • Blood pressure meds (for Raynaud’s)
  • Immunosuppressants
Summary Table
ConditionKey FeaturesWho to See / What to Do
CPPD (Pseudogout)Sudden joint swelling, similar to goutJoint fluid analysis; NSAIDs for relief
Marfan SyndromeTall stature, long limbs, heart/aorta risksCardiologist + genetic/rheumatology follow-up
VasculitisMulti-organ inflammation, systemic symptomsUrgent rheumatology evaluation
Sjögren’s SyndromeDry eyes, dry mouth, fatigueEye care + immunotherapy if severe
SclerodermaSkin tightening, risk of internal organ involvementOrgan monitoring + immunosuppressive therapy
Final Message

These conditions may be rare, but early diagnosis and specialist care are key to controlling symptoms and preventing complications.

If you or a family member experience unexplained joint swelling, dry eyes/mouth, unusual rashes, or fatigue with weight loss, speak to your rheumatologist or healthcare provider.

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