calcium deposit is painful

[8816]

I have a marble sized calcium deposit on my left wrist that is painful like a bruise suddenly.Is this cause for concern?

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

How are you?
Usually the calcium deposits are not painful in the early stages. As the deposits accumulate over time and grow in size or get inflamed they start causing pain.
Ice packs and OTC pain killers help in relieving pain. Later on corticosteroid injections and surgery can be opted for depending upon the severity of symptoms. Take care!

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,

Pains in the calcium deposits on the wrist are indicative of pseudogout.

Pseudogout is a type of inflammation of joints (arthritis) that is caused by deposits of crystals, called calcium pyrophosphate, in and around the joints. Pseudogout literally means "false gout."

The crystal that incites the inflammation of gout is monosodium urate and that in case of pseudogout is calcium. Pseudogout can result in arthritis of a number of joints but commonly involves the knees, wrists, shoulders, hips, and/or ankles. The "attacks" of joint inflammation, characterized by acute joint swelling, warmth, stiffness, and pain, may last for days to weeks and can resolve spontaneously.

The treatment of pseudogout is directed toward stopping the inflammation in the joints. Local ice applications and resting can help. Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and others are often first drugs of choice.

Removing fluid containing the crystals from the joint can reduce pain and help the inflammation to diminish more quickly. Cortisone injected into an inflamed joint and oral colchicine are also used.

http://www.medicinenet.com/pseudogout/page3.htm

Pls consult a rheumatologist for the treatment.

Take care and do keep us posted on how you are doing.