Pharmacy Clinical Pearl of the Day: Gout

Clinical Pearl of the Day: Gout

Gout is a common and complex form of arthritis that can affect anyone.

Insight:

• Gout is characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and tenderness in one or more joints, most often in the big toe.
• An attack of gout can occur suddenly, often waking people up in the middle of the night with the sensation that their big toe is on fire.
• The affected joint is hot, swollen, and so tender that even the weight of the bedsheet on it may seem intolerable.
• Symptoms include intense joint pain, lingering discomfort, inflammation and redness, and limited range of motion.
• Risk factors include age, diet, medical conditions, and family history.
• Diagnosis may include blood test, joint fluid test, X-ray imaging, and ultrasound.
• Treatment options include medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, colchicine, corticosteroids, allopurinol, uloric, and probenecid.

Sources:

Gout - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic

gout images - Google Search