Dual-energy CT as a potential new diagnostic tool in the management of gout in the acute setting.

OBJECTIVE: Gout is the most common crystal deposition arthropathy currently diagnosed clinically and with arthrocentesis. Dual-energy CT is a promising new imaging technique offering potential new applications in a number of clinical areas. CONCLUSION: The ability of dual-energy CT to diagnose early gout and its use as a problem-solving tool is shown here. Diagnosis of subclinical gout could avert associated long-term complications, thereby reducing disease burden and improving overall quality of life.