Description
Occurs when uric acid in the body increases due to an imbalance between the production and excretion of uric acid. Uric acid crystals accumulate in the joints leading to acute inflammation. The attacks are usually recurrent and most commonly affect the great toe, foot, ankle, knee, and hand. The pain can be severe, increasing with even the slightest touch of the affected joint.
Symptoms
Pain, swelling, redness, and increased warmth of the affected joint.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis may be confirmed by obtaining joint fluid using a needle (arthrocentesis) and examining the fluid for uric acid crystals. Blood testing to measure uric acid and x-rays may be recommended. However, the diagnosis of gout can often be made without blood or joint fluid testing.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Joint fluid analysis, uric acid level
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Rheumatology, Family Practice, Pediatric Rheumatology, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. The diagnosis may be confirmed by obtaining joint fluid using a needle (arthrocentesis) and examining the fluid for uric acid crystals. Blood testing to measure uric acid and x-rays may be recommended. However, the diagnosis of gout can often be made without blood or joint fluid testing.
Tests:
Complete blood count (CBC), X-ray
Other Specific Tests: Joint fluid analysis, uric acid level
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Rheumatology, Family Practice, Pediatric Rheumatology, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Treatment
Treatment includes: rest, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications/NSAIDs (indomethacin/Indocin, ibuprofen/Motrin), colchicine, pain medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), and/or steroids. Behavioral modifications (such as loss of excess weight, cessation of alcohol and/or decreased consumption of red meat and seafood) may reduce the number of attacks. In addition, probenecid (Benuryl), allopurinol (Zyloprim), febuxostat (Uloric) are medications that lower uric acid and prevent gout attacks.