Gout is a disorder characterised by severe, painful jointinflammation due to the deposition in the joint of uric acid crystals.
Natural history of gout
Gout generally occurs in 'attacks' where a joint suddenly becomes red and painful. With appropriate management things settle down, but after a dietary discretion another flare up may happen. Eventually the joint may become permanently damaged.
Synonyms:
Crystal arthropathy
Gouty arthritis
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Dr Sheila Strover (Editor) BSc (Hons), MB BCh, MBA