Palindromic syndrome: appearance of chondrocalcinosis after 47 years of evolution

We describe a case with a very long history of recurrent episodes of arthritis without radiological articular damage. After 47 years of followup, he developed chondrocalcinosis located only in previously affected joints. Our patient illustrates the heterogeneity of palindromic rheumatism, which should more appropriately be considered as a clinical syndrome. Our case gives us the opportunity to discuss the nosologic situation of palindromic rheumatism and the role of primary joint damage in the articular deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate.