Tophi

 

 

 

Tophi are uric acid deposits that form a lump and occasionally protrude through the skin. They are generally painless, however, they can cause pain stiffness in the affected joint. They can also erode cartilage and bone ultimately destroying the joint. Large tophi under the skin of the hands and feet can give rise to extreme deformities.

 

Common locations for the development of the tophi are:-

 

(a) The helix of the outer ear;

(b) Forearms;

(c) Elbows or knees;

(d) Hands or feet; and

(e) Occasionally around the heart, spine or lungs.

 

Tophi can grow to the size of a tennis ball, but usually only begin to appear as small nodules after 10-20 years of the patient suffering gout.