GOUT ARTHRITIS

What is Gout Arthritis

Gout is a kind of arthritis that occurs when uric acid builds up in blood and causes joint inflammation

EpidemiologyMen

WomenMean age of onset 49 60Incidence (age 32-64)2.8% 1.5%

Attack before the age of 30 is rare and suggest a genetic metabolic disorder

It is more common in men

Etiology Primary gout develops most often

in men between 30 and 60 years. Secondary gout usually results

from chronic diuretic therapy and presents in older subjects, often older than 65 years.

Pathology Gout is caused by disorders of purine

metabolism resulting in elevated levels of uric acid > 7 mg/dl in men > 6 mg/dl in women

Prolonged hyperuricemia leads to formation of monosodium urate monohydrate crystals

SYMPTOMS

Joint pain Affects one or more joints : hip, knee, ankle,

foot, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, or other joints

Toe, ankle and knee are most common

Swelling of Joint Stiffness Warm and red Possible fever

The Four Stages of Gout

DiagnosisX-raysBlood testJoint aspirations

TREATMENT

Colchicine- reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation; pain subsides within 12 hours and relief occurs after 48 hours

Allopurinol- decreases the production of uric acid

Probenecid and sulfinpurazone- prevent absorption of uric acid in the tubules of kidney

THERAPY

Increase water intake Watch diet for food

rich in purines Avoid alcohol Eat enough

carbohydrates. If you are losing

weight, lose it slowly. Quick weight loss may cause uric acid kidney stones to form.