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Ency. home > Disease > C > Chronic gouty arthritis

Chronic gouty arthritis   

Overview | Symptoms | Treatment | Prevention

Alternative names:

Gout - chronic; Gouty arthritis - chronic

Definition:

Gouty arthritis is the name for an attack of a metabolic disease marked by uric acid deposits in the joints. The disorder causes pain, especially in the joints of the feet and legs.  Patients with chronic gout may have repeated episodes of gouty arthritis.

Causes and Risks

Gout is caused by a defect in metabolism which results in an overproduction of uric acid or leads to reduced ability of the kidney to eliminate uric acid. The exact cause is unknown. Risk is increased in males, postmenopausal women, and people with hypertension. Heavy alcohol use, diabetes, obesity, sickle cell anemia, and kidney disease also increase risk, as does lack of preventative measures in those with prior attacks.

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

Ency. home > Disease > C > Chronic gouty arthritis


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