Question 1

What is gout?

Accepted Answer

Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joints and soft tissues, resulting from chronically elevated serum uric acid levels.

Question 2

How is gout diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

The gold standard is joint fluid analysis identifying monosodium urate crystals under polarized microscopy.

Question 3

What uric acid level is considered high?

Accepted Answer

A serum uric acid level above 6.8 mg/dL is above the saturation point. The ACR treatment target is below 6.0 mg/dL.

Question 4

What is the fastest way to stop a gout flare?

Accepted Answer

The ACR recommends colchicine, NSAIDs, or corticosteroids as first-line options for acute gout flares.

Question 5

What foods trigger gout flares?

Accepted Answer

High-purine foods like organ meats and certain seafood, alcohol especially beer, and fructose-sweetened beverages.

Question 6

Can gout be cured?

Accepted Answer

Gout cannot be cured but can be effectively controlled with urate-lowering therapy to stop flares and dissolve crystal deposits.