Dual Energy Computed Tomography is a non-invasive gout diagnostic tool. The technique detects uric acid crystal deposits much earlier than any other method. Early diagnosis is crucial to avoid permanent damage to cartilage, tendon, and bone.
Detection of crystals in joints before acute inflammation occurs helps explain why recovering gouties on urate lowering therapy often experience pain in previously non-affected joints, as dissolving crystals can trigger a gout response by the immune system.
