Pain management in gout.

Gout is currently the most common form of inflammatory arthritis in men. The overall incidence of gout has increased rapidly in the past 20 years. Clinicians in all fields are likely to experience a patient with acute gout in their career. Uncontrolled gout and hyperuricemia can lead to joint destruction and significant morbidity. Fortunately, these diseases can be readily treated and long-term sequelae can be prevented. Recent advances in understanding the role of the innate immune system in acute gout have provided new treatment options. This article addresses the epidemiology, inflammatory pathophysiology, pain management techniques (including recent advances), and treatment of the underlying disease itself.