Gouty arthritis, gouty tophi: the reality of a non-compliant patient (case report)

Authors

  • Carina Norte Médica Interna de Medicina Geral e Familiar. USF SerraMar, ULS do Algarve. Loulé, Portugal.
  • Diana Bernardes Médica Assistente em Medicina Geral e Familiar. USF SerraMar, ULS do Algarve. Loulé, Portugal.
  • Adriana Correia Médica Interna de Medicina Geral e Familiar. USF SerraMar, ULS do Algarve. Loulé, Portugal.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32385/rpmgf.v42i1.14214

Keywords:

Gout, Gouty arthritis, Gouty tophi, Medication adherence, Health education

Abstract

Introduction: Gout is an inflammatory disease caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints and surrounding tissues. If untreated, gout can progress to a chronic form, leading to the formation of tophi and potentially severe joint damage, including ulceration.

Case description: This case report presents a patient who developed a severe case of ulcerated gouty arthritis due to non-adherence to treatment.

Comments: This patient’s non-adherence to both medical follow-up and medication therapy led to the worsening of their condition, with a negative personal impact, as well as an inadequate use of medical and pharmacological resources. Health education, effective communication between healthcare professionals and patients, and regular follow-up are essential to prevent complications and improve patients’ quality of life with gout.

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Author Biographies

  • Carina Norte, Médica Interna de Medicina Geral e Familiar. USF SerraMar, ULS do Algarve. Loulé, Portugal.
    Resident doctor in general and family medicine
  • Diana Bernardes, Médica Assistente em Medicina Geral e Familiar. USF SerraMar, ULS do Algarve. Loulé, Portugal.

    Assistant Doctor of General and Family Medicine

  • Adriana Correia, Médica Interna de Medicina Geral e Familiar. USF SerraMar, ULS do Algarve. Loulé, Portugal.

    Resident Doctor in General and Family Medicine.

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Published

2026-03-04

How to Cite

Gouty arthritis, gouty tophi: the reality of a non-compliant patient (case report). (2026). Portuguese Journal of Family Medicine and General Practice, 42(1), 56-60. https://doi.org/10.32385/rpmgf.v42i1.14214