Chronic Synovitis as a Manifestation of Calcium Crystal Deposition Disease

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Abstract
A 67‐year‐old woman had an 8‐year history of chronic polyarthritis associated with extensive chondrocalcinosis. Synovial biopsy on two occasions showed crystalline material in the synovium, associated with chronic granulomatous reaction. Polarizing microscopy studies suggested the presence of both calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate and dicalcium phosphate dihydrate crystals. Electron diffraction studies were also consistent with the presence of a mixed crystal population. The chronic arthritis seen appears to be the result of chronic synovial inflammation induced by calcium crystal deposits.