Ultrasonographic Assessment in Crystal-induced Arthritis / 대한내과학회지

ABSTRACT

The latest recommendations for the diagnosis and management of crystal-induced arthritis, such as gout and calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) deposition disease, recognize the diagnostic potential of musculoskeletal ultrasonography (MSUS). MSUS allows rapid, highly sensitive, non-invasive detection of microcrystal aggregates in multiple anatomic areas, and can be used as a safe, reliable guide for aspiration of articular and periarticular specimens suitable for microscopic analysis. MSUS can also be used to monitor disease after treatment. Ultrasonographic differentiation between gout and CPPD deposition disease is based on the characteristics of crystal aggregates and their preferential localization in different anatomical areas. This rapid assessment may profoundly affect the clinical process, avoiding expensive, time-consuming diagnostic procedures. This article reviews the current status of and recent advances in MSUS imaging in crystal-induced arthritis.