Tophi

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Tophi

Tophi are chalky, gritty accumulations of uric acid crystals that build up in the soft tissue of a gouty joint, often occurring in the elbow or the joints of fingers or toes. Tophi develop if gout is not treated for an extended period of time.

When located just under the skin, tophi are usually firm and movable. The overlying skin may be thin and red. Tophi that are very near the surface of the skin may appear cream-colored or yellow. If gout progresses without treatment, tophi may form in the cartilage of the external ear or the tissues around the joint (bursae, ligaments, and tendons), resulting in pain, swelling, redness, and warmth (inflammation). Progressive crippling and destruction of cartilage and bone is possible. Fortunately, advances in the early treatment of gout have made this stage of gout uncommon.

Credits

Author	Jeannette Curtis
Author	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Editor	Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate Editor	Tracy Landauer
Associate Editor	Pat Truman
Primary Medical Reviewer	Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Primary Medical Reviewer	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated	May 25, 2007

Last updated:	May 25, 2007
Author:	Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Reviewed By:	Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman

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