Gout

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Questions to Ask Your Doctor about Gout(Free Handout)


Gout Diagnosis

Diagnosis of gout may involve inserting a needle into the affected joint and drawing a sample of the fluid that lubricates the joint (called synovial fluid). The fluid is then analyzed under a microscope to determine if uric acid crystals are present. To rule out joint infection, the fluid also is examined for the presence of bacteria.

Patients with gout may have elevated blood levels of uric acid (hyperuricemia),...Read the full article