Disability due to gouty arthritis.
OBJECTIVE
Disability, or activity limitation, is a common problem in patients with gout. This study explores recent studies examining the nature and extent of disability in gout and addresses the merits and limitations of current self-reported measures of disability.


RESULTS
Gout has a significant impact on patients' ability to perform normal self-care activities, recreational and social activities, and work. Comparative studies indicate that gout patients' physical functioning is strongly reduced and comparable to those with other severe rheumatic conditions. Moreover, gout has been shown to result in substantial work absence and reduced productivity. However, few studies have thoroughly examined the concept of disability in gout. Additionally, assessment of disability due to gout still seems particularly challenging and it is unclear whether current measurement instruments are sufficiently valid and accurate.


CONCLUSIONS
Gout-related disability is an underestimated and understudied problem. More qualitative and quantitative studies are needed that examine the concept of disability in gout and its impact on patients' lives, both during and between disease flares. Moreover, future studies should try to identify gout-specific disability issues and examine the relevance and comprehensiveness of existing measures to further improve the assessment of disability in gout.
Department of Psychology, Health and Technology, University of Twente, Enschede, The Netherlands. P.M.tenKlooster@utwente.nl
Peter M
PM
ten Klooster
Harald E
HE
Vonkeman
Mart A F J
MA
van de Laar
D000203:Activities of Daily Living; D015210:Arthritis, Gouty / Q000503:physiopathology*; D004185:Disability Evaluation; D006233:Persons with Disabilities; D006801:Humans; D012648:Self Care