CYTODIAGNOSIS OF GOUTY TOPHI WITH REVIEW OF LITERATURE

Abstract

Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a valuable diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of periarticular nodules. We present a case of forty five year old male with multiple soft tissue nodules on both the feet without any clinical and radiological features of arthritis. FNAC revealed needle shaped crystals consistent with monosodium urate crystals in amorphous granular debris. Diagnosis of gouty tophi was given. On follow up serum uric acid levels were found to be marginally high and a diagnosis of gout was established. FNAC is a valuable diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of periarticular nodules and pathologists should be aware of cytological features of gouty tophi.