Why are doctors reluctant to diagnose gout?

We are not, usually.: Gout can mimic a number of other diseases including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and infected joint (an emergency). While gout classically affects the big toe, it can affect other joints or many joints at once. Labs/exam may not always be enough to diagnose. The most accurate way to diagnose gout is to collect fluid from the joint and analyze it under a certain type of microscope.

Not reluctant: Doctors are usually not reluctant as the more accurate the diagnosis, the more effective the treatment. Many different types of doctors can diagnose gout, but if a specialist is needed, see a rheumatologist.