Gout has often been called the "disease of kings." It was noted many years ago that gout usually affected nobility and the wealthy. This observation resulted from the richer diet available to those of means during those times. Now, most of us eat like "kings." The disease shows rare economic discrimination. It occurs when uric acid, a break-down product of normal protein degradation which is normally dissolved in the serum of the blood, crystallizes in a joint and greatly irritates its lining. The skin is often quite red over the joint during an attack. It is most common in men from ages 40 to 60. Women are rarely affected until after menopause. Multiple joints may be involved, but usually only one joint is affected at a time. The joints of the base of the big toe, knee, hip or the ankle are the most commonly involved.
