Change perspective to increase diagnostic accuracy of ultrasonography in calcium pyrophosphate dehydrate deposition disease! A new approach: the axial scan of the meniscus

Reumatismo. 2015 Mar 31;66(4):318-21. doi: 10.4081/reumatismo.2014.807.

Abstract

Ultrasonography (US) is a relevant tool in the study of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPP) deposition disease. However, differential diagnosis of hyperechoic deposits within the fibrocartilage can be difficult; moreover, US study is limited by the need of an adequate acoustic window. We describe a US scanning technique that offers a new viewpoint in the study of knee meniscal structure: a longitudinal scan performed according to the long axis of meniscus. This technique proves to be particularly useful for the identification of CPP deposition, but could also improve the US diagnostic utility and accuracy in other meniscal pathologies.

MeSH terms

  • Calcium Pyrophosphate / analysis*
  • Chondrocalcinosis / diagnosis*
  • Crystallization
  • Humans
  • Knee Joint / diagnostic imaging*
  • Knee Joint / pathology
  • Meniscus / chemistry*
  • Meniscus / diagnostic imaging*
  • Predictive Value of Tests
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Ultrasonography* / methods

Substances

  • Calcium Pyrophosphate