Gout

Gout is one of the most painful forms of arthritis and one of the few in which the cause is known. In many cases, inflamation initially develops in the joints of the big toe, a condition called podagra. It also can affect the instep, ankles, heels, knees, wrists, fingers and elbows.

Although there is no cure for gout, the majority of patients are able to manage their symptoms with medications. The disease typically affects men over the age of 30, post-menopausal women, African Americans, people with kidney disease and those who have had an organ transplant. In addition, some families are genetically predisposed to the condition. Gout is strongly associated with obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia and diabetes.

The condition results from deposits of needle-like crystals of uric acid in the connective tissue and joint spaces. Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of waste products in the body. Normally, uric acid is eliminated through the urine. When the body increases its production of uric acid or if the kidneys do not eliminate enough of it from the body, levels build up and cause gout.

For more information or to make an appointment, please call:
Rheumatology Clinic (415) 353-2497

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated August 29, 2007