gouty arthritis

Gouty arthritis is caused by the deposition of urate crystals in the joint capsule, synovial bursa, cartilage, bone, and other tissues, leading to tissue damage and inflammatory reactions. It often has genetic and familial factors, predominantly affects males over 40 years of age, and commonly involves the metatarsophalangeal joint of the great toe, though it may also occur in other larger joints, especially the ankle and foot joints. The main manifestation is severe joint pain, often of sudden unilateral onset. There is marked swelling, warmth, redness, and tenderness in the tissues surrounding the joint. A blood uric acid test can confirm the diagnosis, and pharmacological treatment yields favorable therapeutic effects.