Scanning electron micrograph of a section of calcified meniscus of the knee (fibro- cartilaginous disc dividing the cavity of the joint) from a patien

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Scanning electron micrograph of a section of calcified meniscus of the knee (fibro- cartilaginous disc dividing the cavity of the joint) from a patient with chondrocalcinosis. The disease is characterised by the presence of calcium phosphate crystals in joint cartilage. The crystals (cubes) are here trapped in collagen bundles. The accumulation of crystals in the joints causes inflammation, swelling & reduced articulation. Chondrocalcinosis is also known as pseudogout for its resemblance to gout. The crystals associated with gout are formed from sodium urate (not calcium phosphate) due to a malfunctioning of the uric acid metabolism.

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Size: 4167px × 4251px
Photo credit: © DR GILBERT FAURE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

Keywords: calcium, cartilage, chondrocalcinosis, condition, crystal, crystals, disease, disorder, healthcare, medical, medicine, phosphate, pseudogout, sem