Pathophysiology Practice Questions Related

Review Pathophysiology Practice Questions related questions and content

In gout, a man has developed large, hard nodules around his toes and elbows. The phase of gout he is in is:

  • A. asymptomatic.
  • B. acute flare.
  • C. the intercritical period.
  • D. chronic gout.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The man's presentation of large, hard nodules around his toes and elbows is indicative of tophi formation, which is characteristic of chronic gout. Tophi are deposits of uric acid crystals that can develop over time in untreated or poorly managed gout. During the chronic phase of gout, tophi can form in joints, soft tissues, and organs. Asymptomatic refers to a phase where there are no symptoms present. Acute flare is characterized by sudden and severe joint pain and inflammation. The intercritical period is the time between gout attacks when the patient is symptom-free.