Dual-energy CT may be useful in evaluating the severity of gout, study suggests

Gout is caused by the deposition of monosodium urate (MSU) monohydrate crystals that stimulate acute episodes of inflammation. Chronic tophaceous gout often presents as juxtarticular soft-tissue masses, distinct erosions, overhanging bony margins, and thickening of the synovium.

Gout affects more than six million people in the U.S., and “a non-invasive means of diagnosing gout would be highly desirable,” said Khalid Khashoggi, MD, one of the authors of the study

“Dual-energy CT can detect monosodium urate in different tissues in the body, which will have a huge impact on the understanding of gout and will help in detecting subclinical cases and will allow monitoring response to treatment,” said Dr. Khashoggi. “The technology will also help in problem solving in atypical cases of gout,” he said.

The exhibit is being presented in conjunction with the 2011 American Roentgen Ray Society's annual meeting. For a copy of the exhibit abstract, please contact Keri Sperry via email at ksperry@arrs.org or 703-296-3104.