A patient is seen at the outpatient clinic for a sudden onset of inflammation and severe pain in the great toe. A definitive diagnosis of gouty arthritis is made on the basis of what?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of a patient presenting with symptoms suggestive of gouty arthritis, the definitive diagnosis is established by the presence of monosodium urate crystals in the synovial fluid. This finding is crucial because it directly links the symptoms to the pathological process of gout, confirming the diagnosis with high specificity. Option A, a family history of gout, is not sufficient for a definitive diagnosis as gout can also occur in individuals without a family history. Option B, elevated urine uric acid levels, though associated with gout, is not as specific as the presence of urate crystals in synovial fluid. Option C, elevated serum uric acid levels, is a common finding in gout but lacks the diagnostic specificity provided by the direct visualization of monosodium urate crystals. In an educational context, understanding the diagnostic criteria for gout is essential for healthcare providers involved in assessing and managing patients with suspected inflammatory joint conditions. By emphasizing the significance of synovial fluid analysis and crystal identification, clinicians can make accurate diagnoses and initiate appropriate treatment promptly, thereby improving patient outcomes and quality of care. This case underscores the importance of integrating clinical findings with diagnostic tests to arrive at a definitive diagnosis in patients with suspected gouty arthritis.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.