Page 84 - Virtual Vascular Vol 11
P. 84
Gout
Redness and both first metatarsophalangeal joints.
Gout is a common inflammatory arthritis characterised by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swell-
ing, redness and tenderness in one or more joints, most often involving the first metatarsophalan-
geal joint of the hallux.
It is due to elevated levels of uric acid. Uric acid crystallizes and accumulates in the joints, cause
inflammation.
Treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), glucocorticoids, or colchicine
may improve symptoms. Once the acute attack recovers, levels of uric acid can be lowered via
lifestyle changes and allopurinol for long-term prevention.
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