[Apatite deposition diseases]

Deposition of apatite crystals can be observed as calcific periarthritis and articular calcifications. Deposition of these crystals in the tendons and bursae of the rotator cuff of the shoulder is found in about 3% of adults; it is most of the time asymptomatic. Calcifications often totally disappear after an acute flare up. Intraarticular apatite crystals can be identified in synovial fluids of patients with severe destructive osteoarthrosis, mainly of the shoulder joints. Management with NSAID's and local corticosteroid injections is often very helpful. In rare cases the aspiration with a needle of a calcification or an operative removal is necessary.