Rheumatology

Chronic Gout

Chronic gout is a long-term form of gout, a type of inflammatory arthritis caused by persistently high levels of uric acid in the blood (hyperuricemia). Over time, excess uric acid forms sharp crystals that accumulate in the joints and surrounding tissues, leading to repeated episodes of severe pain, swelling, redness, and stiffness—most commonly in the big toe, but also in the ankles, knees, wrists, and fingers. In chronic cases, frequent flare-ups can result in permanent joint damage and the formation of hard deposits called tophi under the skin.