GOUT- A PAINFUL DISEASE

Rajiv Kumar*, Simranjot Singh Dhunna*, Japneet Singh*, Manpreet Kaur Malhi* and Manbir Kaur*

ABSTRACT

The occurrence of gout in the population is steadily increasing. In research has found several variants of DNA sequences that predispose patients to irregular uric acid metabolism. Risk factor linked to gout include obesity and cardiovascular disease. Though the formal diagnosis is made with arthrocentesis and subsequent analysis, CT and ultrasound findings supplement the diagnosis and monitor disease management. Genetic mutations may be associated with overproduction or more often underexcretion of uric acid because of defects in the renal urate transporter system. Oral corticosteroids, intravenous corticosteroids, NSAIDs and colchicine are equally effective in treating acute flares of gout. They should be monitored periodically to assess preventive therapy in patients with recurrent gout and a history of elevated urate levels. Urate-lowering therapy should be continued for three to six months after a flare if there are no ongoing symptoms.

Keywords: Gout, Monosodium urate crystals, Metabolic syndrome, Hyperuricemia, NSAIDs.