Tophi can erode bone and destroy cartilage, leading to chronic inflammation that can be painful and debilitating.
If its very large, it can be surgically removed.
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Why and When Do Tophi Occur?
What Do Tophi Lumps Look Like?
Tophi lumps look like hard nodules, bumps, or lumps.
Get our printable guide for your next doctor’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
They may be white, yellow, or flesh colored.
Tophi cause the joint to be bulbous and disfigured.
When tophi ulcerate, the material inside looks pasty or chalky.
Where Are Tophi Found?
Initially, they may not cause pain or limit function of joints.
The formation of these mineralized masses can also lead tochronic arthritisandjoint deformity.
Lab tests can confirm a diagnosis.
A CT scan will yield the most detailed and precise images.
Tophi Treatment
Tophi are typically treated as part of a comprehensivegout treatmentplan.
Tophi treatment may involve uric acid-reducing medications.
Larger tophi can be removed with surgical excision.
These include:
With treatment, tophi can be dissolved and will completely disappear over time.
Home Remedies
Lifestyle changes may help improve your gout symptoms.
Tophi can be painful and swollen and may affect mobility if they become large enough.
Treatment for tophi often involves uric acid-lowering medications, dietary changes, and in some cases, surgery.
Fortunately, with treatment, tophi can be dissolved completely over time.
Get our printable guide for your next doctors appointment to help you ask the right questions.
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