An Update on the Diagnosis and Management of Gout
- Author:
Anindita Santosa
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Gout;
Uric Acid;
Urate-lowering Therapy;
Treat-to-target;
Treatment
- From:The Singapore Family Physician
2017;43(2):11-18
- CountrySingapore
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
Gout is characterised by monosodium urate crystal deposition in synovial fluid, articular surfaces, and other tissues, which occurs after the chronic elevation of uric acid levels above the saturation point of 360mmol/L (6mg/dL). Amongst all inflammatory arthropathies, gout is the most common. Given the rising prevalence of gout, it is imperative to keep up with the recent advances in the nunderstanding of the pathophysiology, diagnostic modalities, and therapies of gout. It is important to understand that gout is not as harmless a condition as perceived in the past and is, in fact, associated with significant morbidity and even mortality if left untreated. This article seeks to provide a useful review of the current standard of care and to discuss new developments in the management of gout applicable in any family medicine practice setting.
