2015 ACR/EULAR Classification Criteria for Gout

RheumatologyGoutClassificationBeta toolThis tool is in beta. It has undergone internal validation but still requires additional testing. Always confirm the data entered and the results obtained before clinical use. It should not be used as the sole basis for clinical decisions.

At least one episode of swelling, pain, or tenderness in a peripheral joint or bursaAn explicit yes/no answer is required before applying the criteria.

YesNo

MSU crystals identified in synovial fluid from a symptomatic joint or bursa, or in a tophusIf present, this sufficient criterion classifies gout without weighted scoring.

YesNo

Pattern of joint or bursa involvement ever during symptomatic episode(s)

Select the highest category ever present within this hierarchical domain.

Select

Number of episode characteristics ever present

Characteristics are erythema, inability to bear touch or pressure, and great difficulty walking or using the joint.

Select

Typical episode time-course category

Typical episode = at least 2 of 3: time to maximal pain <24 h, resolution in <=14 days, and complete resolution to baseline between episodes.

Select

Clinical evidence of tophus presentUse the published definition of a draining or chalk-like subcutaneous nodule in a typical site.

YesNo

Serum urate

Optional in the weighted branch: if unavailable it contributes 0 points. Ideally use a value off urate-lowering therapy and >4 weeks from episode onset.

Synovial fluid analysis of a symptomatic joint or bursa

Not done = 0 points; trained-examiner MSU-negative microscopy subtracts 2 points.

Select

Ultrasound double-contour sign or DECT urate deposition present in a symptomatic joint or bursaIf imaging is unavailable, score this domain as absent.

YesNo

Conventional radiography of hands and/or feet shows at least one gout erosionIf imaging is unavailable, score this domain as absent.

YesNo

Enter the data

The result appears automatically once all required fields are complete.

Clinical noticeEducational classification tool only. It does not replace individualized médical evaluation and does not independently confirm a diagnosis of gout.

Context and use

If the entry criterion is not met, the criteria are not applicable. If MSU crystals are identified, gout is classified without weighted scoring.

Total score = pattern + episode characteristics + time course + tophus + serum urate + synovial fluid + urate deposition imaging + radiographic damage

Pattern 0/1/2; episode characteristics 0/1/2/3; time course 0/1/2; tophus 0/4; serum urate -4/0/2/3/4; synovial fluid 0/-2; imaging 0/4; radiography 0/4. Threshold >= 8.