Gout Diagnosis
Check out our article
"Get Out the Gout"
Usually, physicians can diagnose gout based on the physical
examination and medical history (the patient's description of symptoms and other
information). Doctors can also administer a test that measures the level of uric acid in the blood. While normal uric acid levels don't
necessarily rule out gout and high levels don't confirm it, the presence of hyperuricemia increases the likelihood of gout. The
development of a tophus can confirm the diagnosis of gout. The most definitive way to
diagnose gout is to take a sample of fluid from the joint and test it for urate crystals.A
physical examination of the joints shows acute arthritis.
Gout Diagnosis - tests
- Synovial fluid analysis shows uric acid crystals.
- Uric acid (blood test) may be elevated.
- Joint X-rays may be normal.
The following tests might also be helpful in obtaining a gout diagnosis
- Uric acid - urine
- Synovial biopsy
- Blood differential
|
