Camptodactyly Arthropathy Coxa Vara Pericarditis Syndrome

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2022-04-26
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Camptodactyly-arthropathy-coxa vara-pericarditis syndrome (CACP) is a rare condition which causes joint abnormalities that begin at birth or during early childhood. The name comes from the main symptoms, including permanent bending of the fingers (camptodactyly), joint disease (arthropathy), and changes in the hip joint resulting in shortened legs and a possible limp (coxa vara). Some people with CACP also have too many cells between their joints (synovial hyperplasia) and too much fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion) or lungs (pleural effusion). 

Camptodactyly-arthyropathy-coxa vara-pericarditis syndrome is caused by a mutation in the PRG4 gene. This gene is responsible for making a protein that lubricates the joints.The condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. CACP may be at first confused with juvenile idiopathic arthritis because the two diseases have similar symptoms. 

Diagnosis is based on clinical findings (symptoms which the doctor notices on a physical exma) and a biopsy of the fluid between the joints (synovial fluid). Genetic testing can confirm the diagnosis. Treatment options such as physical therapy and pain medication focus on relieving symptoms of the disease. The medication for juvenile idiopathic arthritis is not helpful for those with CACP.