Gout Diagnostic Score calculator
Result
3.0points
Low probability (<40%) — seek alternative diagnosis
Janssens diagnostic rule. Joint aspiration (MSU crystals) remains gold standard.
How to use it
- 1
Score ≥8 without aspiration. Gout highly likely — start urate-lowering therapy and colchicine/NSAID.
- 2
Urate levels. Urate ≥480 µmol/L = +3.5 pts. Urate <240 = −4 pts (gout unlikely).
- 3
First MTP: highest single weight. Podagra (first MTP) = 2.5 pts — classic gout presentation.
When to use it
- When joint aspiration unavailable or refused
- Clinical diagnosis of gout when MSU crystal analysis not possible.
- Suspected gout vs. septic arthritis
- Score ≥8 makes gout likely but does NOT exclude septic arthritis — aspire if in doubt.
- Initiating allopurinol
- Urate target < 360 µmol/L (EULAR) or <300 µmol/L in tophaceous gout.
A reference for clinicians and students, not medical advice. A score supports a decision; it does not make one. Check every result against the patient in front of you and your local protocol.
At a glance
- Specialty
- Rheumatology
- Inputs
- 7
- Type
- Formula
