Uric Acid Stones

Question 1

What type of stones are seen in patients who have gout?

Answer 1

Uric Acid Stones

Uric acid stones are not complicated.

Question 2

What is the first-line treatment for chronic gout?

Answer 2

Xanthine oxidase inhibitors (i.e., allopurinol or febuxostat)

These are preferred over uricosurics due to the risk of uric acid stones.

Question 3

What do uricosurics do?

Answer 3

Increase urinary excretion of uric acid

Examples include probenecid and sulfinpyrazone.

Question 4

Why are xanthine oxidase inhibitors preferred over uricosurics?

Answer 4

Uricosurics increase the risk of uric acid stones

This makes xanthine oxidase inhibitors a safer option.

Question 5

What is the function of the organic anion transporter (OAT)?

Answer 5

Facilitates absorption of uric acid

Inhibition of OAT can lead to increased urinary uric acid levels.

Question 6

What unique effect does probenecid have regarding b-lactam antibiotics?

Answer 6

Helps maintain serum b-lactam levels

This is because b-lactams are excreted by OAT.

Question 7

Fill in the blank: Probenecid and sulfinpyrazone inhibit _______.

Answer 7

Organic anion transporter (OAT)

This inhibition affects the absorption of uric acid.