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Gout - chronic

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Definition:

Gout is a disease involving uric acid deposits in the joints. The disorder causes pain, especially in the joints of the feet and legs. Chronic gout involves repeated episodes of joint pain.

See also: Gout - acute

Alternative Names:

Gouty arthritis - chronic; Chronic gouty arthritis

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Gout is caused by an overproduction of uric acid or a reduced ability of the kidney to get rid of uric acid. The exact cause is unknown. It is more common in males, postmenopausal women, and people with high blood pressure. Heavy alcohol use, diabetes, obesity, sickle cell anemia, and kidney disease also increase the risk.

The condition may also develop in people who take drugs that interfere with uric acid excretion.

• Review Date: 6/18/2007
• Reviewed By: Steve Lee, DO, Rheumatology Fellow, Loma Linda University Medical Center, Loma Linda, CA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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