Final answer:
Pseudogout is caused by the deposition of calcium pyrophosphate crystals in the joints, which can be triggered by trauma, surgery, illnesses, and certain medications.
Step-by-step explanation:
Pseudogout is a medical condition characterized by the sudden onset of joint pain and inflammation. It is caused by the deposition of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the joints, which is different from gout, where the crystals are composed of uric acid. Factors that can precipitate a pseudogout attack include trauma to the joint, surgery, the presence of other illnesses, and certain medications. Like gout, treatments for pseudogout aim to alleviate symptoms and often involve the use of anti-inflammatory drugs.