University of Queensland, Department of Medicine, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Brisbane, Australia.
We now have sufficient knowledge to be able to identify the factors contributing to hyperuricemia in most patients with gout. Some of these factors, such as obesity, a high-purine diet, regular alcohol consumption, and diuretic therapy, may be correctable. In patients with persistent hyperuricemia, regular medication should lower the serum urate concentration to an optimal level. The continuing challenge is to educate patients about correctable factors and the importance of regular medication and ensure their compliance so that attacks of gout do not recur.