Definitive test for gout ‘not always accessible’

Three aspects need to be considered regarding management of gout, Gary Culliton reports in his latest Clinical Update. Firstly, acute attacks are treated, secondly, patients are advised on lifestyle changes and medications and thirdly, the need for urate-lowering agents is evaluated Musculoskeletal symptoms account for approximately 20 per cent of all GP consultations. Management of rheumatic diseases remains clinically challenging. Diagnoses usually depend on clinical evaluations, rather than on laboratory results or imaging. Dr Ruth Lee, consultant rheumatologist at the Hermitage Clinic, spoke about the management of rheumatological conditions in primary care, at the clinic’s recent GP education evening. Patients…