Gouty Alopecia: An Intriguing Manifestation of Disseminated Tophaceous Gout

Abstract

Introduction: Gout is a metabolic disorder characterized by hyperuricemia, resulting in the deposition of monosodium urate crystals in joints, soft tissues, and skin. Chronic tophaceous gout manifests as asymptomatic nodules, commonly appearing in less vascular areas such as the ears, elbows, and knees. These nodules, or tophi, typically develop after recurrent episodes of arthritis and can lead to significant functional and cosmetic impairments. In rare instances, gout may present with unusual clinical features, such as alopecia. This report presents an intriguing case of a middle-aged man burdened with chronic gouty tophi, showcasing an unusual manifestation of alopecia linked to urate crystal deposition around hair follicles. This rare form of non-scarring alopecia, rooted in scalp urate accumulation, exhibited a remarkable and unprecedented therapeutic response, marking it as a novel phenomenon in medical literature. Case Presentation: A 45-year-old male presented with a five-year history of asymptomatic, firm nodules on his hands, forearms, elbows, feet, and knees, resulting in joint deformities and limited movement. He also reported a six-month history of patchy hair loss on his occipital scalp. The patient had a chronic history of intermittent arthritis and was a habitual alcoholic. Conclusions: This case highlights the rare presentation of gouty alopecia, characterized by perifollicular urate crystal deposition and disseminated tophi. The alopecia, likely caused by crystal pressure or disrupted follicular physiology, posed a diagnostic challenge but demonstrated remarkable improvement with targeted treatment. By shedding light on this underrecognized entity, this report invites further exploration into its pathophysiology and management, offering insights into uncharted medical territory.