Gota

Abstract

Gout is an ancient disease, characterized by recurrent attacks of acute inflammation in one or more joints due to deposition of monosodium urate crystals in the joint cavity. Untreated, gouty attacks last for several days, with severe pain, swelling and disability during the attack. When allowed to progress, deposits of sodium urate (tophi) develop around the joints, leading to disability and deformity. Elevated levels of plasma uric acid are seen in over 90% of gout patients and hyperuricemia is considered the precursor of Gout. Diagnosis is made on clinical grounds, but should be confirmed by the demonstration of urate crystals in synovial fluid or tophi. Treatment aims to reduce pain and swelling during the attack, then prevention of recurrences and control of hyperuricemia and its complications.