Calcific Tendinitis and Soft-Tissue Calcification Resembling Gout

Abstract

Eight cases have been evaluated in which calcific tendinitis presented as acute monarticular arthritis closely resembling acute gout. In each, soft-tissue calcification in the area of maximum tenderness was demonstrated. All had normal serum uric acid levels. Five of the individuals responded dramatically to colchicine therapy; the other three improved following treatment with phenylbutazone or oxyphenylbutazone. Another patient with uremia, who was undergoing hemodialysis, had extensive soft-tissue calcifications associated with acute inflammation also responsive to colchicine. The calcified material in this patient and in one of the patients with calcific tendinitis was found to be hydroxyapatite.