|
Gout is a heterogenous group of diseases resulting from monosodium urate(MSU) crystal deposition in tissues or from supersaturation of uric acid in extracellular fluids. Clinical manifestations include ① recurrent attacks of articular and periarticular inflammation; ② accumulation of articular, osseous, soft tissue, and cartilagenous crystalline deposits; ③ uric acid calculi in urinary tract; and ④ interstitial nephropathy with renal function impairment. Gout almost always can be treated successfully and without complications. Therapeutic goals include terminating acute attack; providing rapid, safe relief of pain and inflammation; averting future attacks; and preventing such complications as formation of tophi, renal stones, and destructive arthropathy. Treatment of gout can be challenging, given that the disease frequently presents in association with other disorders; patient compliance can be difficult to achieve and the effectiveness and safety of therapies can vary widely from patient to patient. However, with early intervention, careful monitoring, and patient education, the prognosis is excellent.
|