Therapy in gout.

The effective management of patients with gout is outlined. The treatment of the acute attack, the prevention of recurrent episodes, and the dissolution of tophi, when present, are generally straightforward and associated with relatively few complications. Patients with a resistant acute attack, with extensive tophaceous deposition, or with allergy or toxicity to any of the standard drugs, present more complex treatment decisions. All agents must be used in an individualized manner for each patient with appropriate concern for risks as well as for benefit.