How do you get tested for gout?

Get fluid from joint: The most reliable way to test for gout is for your doctor to get fluid from an affected joint and to examine it using special microscopic techniques- a type of crystal called uric acid causes gout and can be seen. If fluid cannot be taken, some doctors will check uric acid in the blood. High levels support the diagnosis, but cannot ensure that the urate is causing the joint pain.

EXAM/LABS/TESTS: The classic symptoms of gout include the quick onset of pain, redness, swelling, and warmth to a the joint most commonly involved is the big toe. Oher joints can be involved, so a physical exm is important. Lab testing can show a high uric acid level. The most definitive test is taking fluid out of a joint with a needle and analyzing it with a microscope for uric acid. I hope this helps.

Urate crystals: In the joint it is urate crystals not uric acid. The urate salt precipitates in the joint. Identifying the monosodium urate crystalsthe smoking gum to diagnose gout. As a rheumatologist were like this way to guarantee the patient needs long term therapy and the risks this may involve. In the urine that is where we find uric acid crystals, not in the joint during a gout attack.

Multiple ways: Two ways to diagnose gout: simply having a history and physical possibly with xray and blood test, or this plus a needle aspiration of fluid extracted from the inflamed joint which can prove gout crystals are the cause of pain. Most people can be diagnosed based on history/ physical.

Exam and testing: Your doctor can ask you questions (how quickly your joint pain started, whether a joint swelled or turned red), then possibly take blood tests and/or xrays, and in some cases during a "flare" aspirate fluid from a joint with a small needle. (usually specialists do this.) ask your doctor if you have concerns because gout is very treatable.

Fluid crystals: Swollen joint drain fluid look under microscope for uric acid crystals check serum uric acid level.