Therapeutic consequences of crystals in the synovial fluid: a review for clinicians.

Many crystals may be found in arthritic joints. Rheumatologists are able to diagnose, with a high degree of probability, which crystals induce arthritis in the individual case. A definite diagnosis supported by polarisation microscopy may provide a firm basis for adequate long-term treatment. Recently new insights in the inflammatory processes induced the development of targeted therapies. We review novel developments in crystal-induced arthritis and gout in particular.