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.