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Monosodium urate crystals in asymptomatic knee joints
The Journal of Rheumatology
|November 1, 1982
Summary
Monosodium urate (MSU) crystals are present in the synovial fluid of asymptomatic gout patients, indicating crystals can exist without acute inflammation. Additional factors likely contribute to gouty inflammation development.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Crystal-induced arthritis
Background:
- Tophaceous gout is characterized by monosodium urate (MSU) crystal deposition.
- The role of MSU crystals in asymptomatic joints requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence of MSU crystals in synovial fluid and tissue from asymptomatic joints in patients with tophaceous gout.
- To explore the implications of MSU crystal presence in the absence of acute gouty inflammation.
Main Methods:
- Synovial fluid aspiration from asymptomatic knee joints of patients with tophaceous gout.
- Synovial biopsy for histological examination.
- Microscopic identification of MSU crystals.
Main Results:
- MSU crystals were detected in the synovial fluid of 11 out of 13 patients.
- Intracellular MSU crystals were observed in some cases.
- MSU crystals were found in synovial biopsies from 2 out of 6 patients.
Conclusions:
- MSU crystals can be present in synovial fluid and synovium even without acute gouty arthritis.
- The findings suggest that factors beyond MSU crystal presence are crucial for triggering gouty inflammation.