Definition of Disease, hydroxyapatite crystal
Disease, hydroxyapatite crystal: The inflammation caused by hydroxyapatite crystals has been referred to as hydroxyapatite crystal disease.
Hydroxyapatite is a major component and an essential ingredient of normal bone and teeth, makes up bone mineral and the matrix of teeth, and gives bones and teeth their rigidity.
Hydroxyapatite molecules can group together (crystalize) to form microscopic clumps. If these tiny crystals of hydroxyapatite are deposited by mistake in or around joints, they may cause inflammation of the joints and nearby tissues such as the tendons and ligaments (particularly causing rotator cuff problems in the shoulder) and this is hydroxyapatite crystal disease.
Source: MedTerms™ Medical Dictionaryhttp://www.medterms.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=7432
Last Editorial Review: 6/14/2012
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