ABSTRACT

The radiographic features of gout are usually nonspecific early in the disease

course. Plain films may reveal soft tissue swelling of the involved part during the

acute attack and may be normal during the asymptomatic (intercritical) periods.

Over time, and long before apparent on physical examination, the inflammatory

reaction to microscopic tophi leads to degenerative changes in bone and cartilage.

These abnormalities are usually asymmetric and are most common in the feet and

hands; may be seen in wrists, elbows, and knees in more severe disease; and can

occur in almost any joint in the body on rare occasions.