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Gout Diagnostic Rule (Nijmegen Decision Rule)

Rheumatology specialty tool

Bedside Tool Interface Configuration

Calculates the high-sensitivity clinical diagnostic calculator for acute gout, avoiding painful synovial fluid crystal extraction when positive.

Algorithm Checklist Parameters:
  • 1. Biological Male? (+2 Pts)
  • 2. Patient has previous joint arthritis flare episodes? (+2 Pts)
  • 3. Arthritis symptoms peaked within 24 hours of onset? (+0.5 Pts)
  • 4. Active erythema/joint redness present? (+1 Point)
  • 5. First metatarsophalangeal (MTP1, big toe) joint involved? (+2.5 Pts)
  • 6. Comorbid hypertension or cardiovascular disease history? (+1.5 Pts)
  • 7. Serum Uric Acid level (mg/dL)

Primary Clinical Application:

Primary care triage algorithm to diagnose gout clinically without invasive joint aspiration.