Current state-of-the-art imaging of gout – A narrative review

Abstract

Gout, which frequently manifests as excruciating flare-ups and gradual joint deterioration, is still the most prevalent type of crystal-induced arthritis. Despite the fact that the disease's well-known characteristics are hyperuricemia and the deposition of monosodium urate crystals, precise diagnosis can still be difficult, particularly in instances that resemble other arthritides or lack typical biochemical results. Imaging has become essential for tracking gout activity and response to treatment, in addition to detecting the condition. Advanced modalities like dual-energy computed tomography, photon-counting detector computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging have joined conventional radiography and ultrasonography over the past years. Applications of artificial intelligence have started to assist in picture interpretation and diagnosis accuracy in more recent times. In this review article, we focus on how imaging has changed in the treatment of gout, analyze the benefits and disadvantages of each modality, and hypothesize how new technologies can influence clinical practice in the future.