Which tests are used in diagnosing gout?

The serum uric acid level test is a key diagnostic tool for gout because it measures the concentration of uric acid in the bloodstream. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis characterized by the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in the joints, which occurs when uric acid levels are elevated (hyperuricemia). By assessing the serum uric acid level, healthcare providers can determine whether a patient's uric acid levels are elevated and thereby support the diagnosis of gout. Although not definitive alone, high levels of uric acid can indicate the likelihood of gout, especially when correlated with clinical symptoms such as joint pain and swelling.

Other tests may be used in the diagnostic process or to rule out other conditions; however, the serum uric acid level directly relates to the pathophysiology of gout and is one of the primary investigations ordered to confirm the diagnosis.