Crystal-Induced Arthritides in the Elderly: An Update.

The prevalence of gout increases with age. After the serum concentration of urate exceeds the saturation or solubility point, it deposits in and around the joints. Presentation in the elderly is often atypical and challenging to diagnose. Treatment depends on disease stage, health status, and comorbidities. Elderly patients often have several confounding issues; treatment decisions can be complicated and therapeutic options limited. To prevent recurrence, serum concentration of urate should be maintained well below the saturation threshold of 6.8 mg/dL, leading to dissolution of urate deposits and preventing recurrence.