Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Due To Tophaceous Gout

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Volume 27 (8) * August 2004 * Brief Report (abstract)

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Due To Tophaceous Gout

T. Rich, MD; C. Bush, MD; J. Lincoski, MD; M.

Harrington, MD

ABSTRACT

Tophaceous gout is a recognized cause of carpal tunnel syndrome. Of

2649 carpal tunnel releases, 15 hands in 13 patients were identified with

tophaceous gout in the carpal tunnel. The incidence of tophaceous gout in

the carpal tunnel was 0.6%. Twelve of 13 patients were male, and 8 of 10

patients with a history of gout developed carpal tunnel syndrome despite

adequate medical treatment. Thus, consideration should be given for tophi as

a cause of carpal tunnel syndrome, especially in older men despite medical

treatment for gout.

AUTHORS

From the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Geisinger Medical Center,

Danville, Pa.