The Great Mimicker: Atypical Gout Presentations from an Orthopaedic Oncology Perspective

Abstract

We present 5 cases of atypical gout presentation in which the initial diagnostic workup suggested disease processes ranging from benign osseous lesions, such as giant cell tumor of bone or aneurysmal bone cyst, to neoplastic or metastatic lesions. As gout can mimic more nefarious conditions, it should be considered in the initial diagnostic workup of lytic and expansile lesions in a patient with the appropriate risk factors. A rational and systematic approach to any soft-tissue or osseous lesion typically results in prompt diagnosis and treatment. Providers who do not have extensive experience treating soft-tissue or osseous lesions should consider referring to an orthopaedic oncologist, especially when a diagnosis of a benign lesion cannot be definitively made.