DESCRIPTION
Gout and pseudogout are two types of arthritis that result in sore joints. With these types of arthritis, crystals form in the joint, causing irritation that is sometimes also present in the tendons near the joint. Joints can become swollen, painful, and red (Figure 1).
These conditions can affect joints all over the body. In gout, the first joint affected is often the big toe. The elbow, wrist, and finger joints are also common sites. In pseudogout, larger joints such as the knee or wrist are more commonly involved. Painful swellings can come and go in the same joint or in different joints.