DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Orthopedic Condition

Chronic Gout

MODERATE

A chronic inflammatory arthritis caused by hyperuricemia and deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joints and tissues. Characterized by recurrent acute flares and progressive joint damage. Associated with metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and chronic kidney disease.

Global Affected

55.0M

Countries

111

Symptoms

Sudden severe joint pain
Joint redness and swelling
Warmth over joint
Tenderness
Tophi (urate deposits)
Limited joint mobility
Kidney stones
Chronic joint damage
Fever during flares

Treatment Options

NSAIDs
Colchicine
Corticosteroids
Allopurinol
Febuxostat
Probenecid
Pegloticase
IL-1 inhibitors
Lifestyle modifications

Risk Factors

1Hyperuricemia
2Male gender
3Age (post-menopausal in women)
4Obesity
5Hypertension
6Diabetes
7Metabolic syndrome
8Chronic kidney disease
9Diuretic use
10Alcohol consumption
11High purine diet
12Family history

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Serum uric acid
  • 2Joint aspiration (crystal analysis)
  • 3X-rays
  • 4Ultrasound
  • 5Dual-energy CT
  • 6Assessment for tophi
  • 7Kidney function tests

Prognosis

With proper urate-lowering therapy, flares reduced and tophi can resolve. Without treatment, progressive joint destruction and disability. Increased cardiovascular and renal risk. Quality of life often significantly impaired.

Prevention

  • Maintain healthy weight
  • Limit alcohol
  • Stay hydrated
  • Limit purine-rich foods
  • Control blood pressure
  • Monitor uric acid levels
  • Allopurinol prophylaxis if indicated

Research Status

Urate-lowering therapy (allopurinol, febuxostat) to target <6 mg/dL. Pegloticase for refractory gout. IL-1 inhibitors (anakinra, canakinumab) for flares. Treat-to-target approach improves outcomes. Cardiovascular benefits of colchicine.

Sources

  • https://www.cdc.gov/
  • https://www.hematology.org/education/patients
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books
  • https://rarediseases.org/rare-diseases

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.