Leukotriene B4, an inflammatory mediator in gout

Leukotriene B4 (LTB4), a metabolite of arachidonic acid and a potent cytotaxin, is generated by human peripheral polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNs) exposed to monosodium urate crystals (MSU). The leukotriene is present in gouty effusions in concentrations significantly greater than those found in synovial fluid from patients with active rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis. Further metabolism and biological deactivation of LTB4 by PMNs are partly inhibited by MSU. It is concluded that LTB4 is an important chemical mediator in an acute gouty attack.