Gout Diagnosis Calculator
Assess gout probability using validated clinical criteria and scoring system
Gout Diagnostic Criteria Assessment
Important Medical Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational purposes only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. Consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment of suspected gout.
Has the patient experienced joint inflammation or arthritis before this episode?
Did the symptoms reach maximum intensity within 24 hours of onset?
Is there visible redness (erythema) around the affected joint?
Is the first metatarsophalangeal joint (big toe joint) affected? This is the most common site for gout.
Does the patient have hypertension or multiple cardiovascular diseases (e.g., coronary artery disease, heart failure, stroke)?
Threshold: > 5.88 mg/dL (0.35 mmol/L)
Scoring System
Interpretation Guide
Uric Acid Reference
Threshold for Gout
mg/dL: > 5.88 mg/dL
mmol/L: > 0.35 mmol/L
Normal Ranges
Men: 3.4-7.0 mg/dL (0.20-0.42 mmol/L)
Women: 2.4-6.0 mg/dL (0.14-0.36 mmol/L)
Note: 11-49% of gout patients may have normal uric acid during acute attacks
Understanding Gout and Diagnostic Criteria
What is Gout?
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joints and soft tissues. It typically affects the first metatarsophalangeal joint (big toe) but can involve other joints.
Risk Factors
- •Male sex: Men are 3-4 times more likely to develop gout
- •Age: Risk increases with age, especially after menopause in women
- •Diet: High purine foods (meat, seafood), alcohol, sugary drinks
- •Comorbidities: Obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease
Clinical Presentation
Acute Gout Attack
Sudden onset of severe joint pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. Often starts at night and reaches maximum intensity within 24 hours.
Podagra
Classic gout affecting the first metatarsophalangeal joint. Occurs in 50-75% of initial gout attacks and 90% of patients eventually.
Other Joints
Ankles, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbows can be affected. Polyarticular gout is more common in women and elderly patients.
Diagnostic Approach
Gold Standard: Synovial Fluid Analysis
Polarized light microscopy showing negatively birefringent crystals
Clinical Scoring Systems
This calculator uses validated criteria when synovial fluid analysis is unavailable
Imaging Studies
Ultrasound or dual-energy CT can detect urate deposits
Treatment Considerations
Acute Treatment
NSAIDs, colchicine, or corticosteroids for immediate relief
Chronic Management
Urate-lowering therapy (allopurinol, febuxostat) to prevent future attacks
Lifestyle Modifications
Dietary changes, weight management, alcohol reduction, adequate hydration