Externally Peer Reviewed by Mosby Primary Gouty Arthritis Overview. An illness secondary to a chronic increase in the serum uric acid. Chronic, low-grade inflammation of joints. Uric acid kidney stones. Acute gouty arthritis.
Involved joints are red, swollen, warm, and exquisitely tender.
Fever and leukocytosis may occur. Other sites, such as foot, knee, hand, or shoulder, may also be involved. Acute attack lasts 3 to 10 days without treatment. It may be difficult to differentiate from a septic joint, and so joint aspiration for synovial fluid examination is critical, especially with the first attack. Overindulgence in food and emotional stress may also trigger attacks.