![Gout (/ɡaʊt/ GOWT[9]) is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by recurrent attacks of a red, tender, hot and s...](https://img3.medioq.com/458/217/180004954582172.jpg)
01/10/2022
Gout (/ɡaʊt/ GOWT[9]) is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by recurrent attacks of a red, tender, hot and swollen joint,[10][4] caused by deposition of monosodium urate monohydrate crystals. Pain typically comes on rapidly, reaching maximal intensity in less than 12 hours.[7] The joint at the base of the big toe is affected in about half of cases.[11] It may also result in tophi, kidney stones, or kidney damage.[3]
Gout is due to persistently elevated levels of uric acid in the blood.[4][7] This occurs from a combination of diet, other health problems, and genetic factors.[3][4] At high levels, uric acid crystallizes and the crystals deposit in joints, tendons, and surrounding tissues, resulting in an attack of gout.[3] Gout occurs more commonly in those who regularly drink beer or sugar-sweetened beverages or who eat foods that are high in purines such as liver, shellfish, or anchovies, or are overweight.[3][5] Diagnosis of gout may be confirmed by the presence of crystals in the joint fluid or in a deposit outside the joint.[3] Blood uric acid levels may be normal during an attack.[3]
Treatment with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids, or colchicine improves symptoms.[3][4][12] Once the acute attack subsides, levels of uric acid can be lowered via lifestyle changes and in those with frequent attacks, allopurinol or probenecid provides long-term prevention.[7] Taking vitamin C and eating a diet high in low-fat dairy products may be preventive.[13][14]
Gout affects about 1 to 2% of adults in the developed world at some point in their lives.[7] It has become more common in recent decades.[3] This is believed to be due to increasing risk factors in the population, such as metabolic syndrome, longer life expectancy, and changes in diet.[7] Older males are most commonly affected.[3] Gout was historically known as "the disease of kings" or "rich man's disease".[7][15] It has been recognized at least since the time of the ancient Egyptians.[7]
