Gout and Hyperuricemia: an Historical Perspective

Gout is a common disorder of uric acid metabolism. A disease of antiquity its’ often dramatic presentation and unique manifestations have been familiar for eons to clinicians and to its sufferers. Effective modern therapies may have downgraded its status, yet it’s long, rich history remains a source of fascination, indeed entertainment to those with an interest in the pathophysiology of disease, therapeutic discovery, indeed with the annals of medicine. This paper reviews the history of one of the oldest afflictions of mankind.