From the Research
Definition and Causes of Prepatellar Gout
- Prepatellar gout refers to the deposition of urate crystals in the prepatellar bursa, which is located in front of the kneecap (patella) 1.
- This condition can occur in patients with gout, a chronic disease characterized by hyperuricemia (elevated serum urate levels) and urate crystal deposition in joints and soft tissues 2, 3.
- Prepatellar gout can present as a unique manifestation of tophaceous gout, even in patients with normal serum uric acid concentrations 1.
Clinical Presentation and Diagnosis
- Prepatellar gout can manifest as prepatellar bursitis, which is characterized by inflammation and swelling of the prepatellar bursa 1, 4, 5.
- The diagnosis of prepatellar gout is typically made by aspirating the prepatellar bursa and detecting urate crystals in the fluid 1.
- Clinical presentation and laboratory tests, such as bursal aspirate analysis and blood tests, can help differentiate prepatellar gout from other causes of prepatellar bursitis, such as septic bursitis or traumatic bursitis 4, 5.
Treatment and Management
- The treatment of prepatellar gout typically involves addressing the underlying gout condition, which may include urate-lowering therapy and anti-inflammatory agents 2, 3.
- In addition, local treatment of the prepatellar bursitis may be necessary, which can include aspiration, intrabursal corticosteroid injections, and conservative measures such as rest, ice, and elevation 4, 5.
- It is essential to differentiate prepatellar gout from septic bursitis, as the treatment approaches differ significantly 4, 5.