Leddgikt

Leddegikt is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain, stiffness and swelling. It describes a broad group of disorders collectively known as arthritis. The condition can be chronic or episodic and varies in severity between individuals and over time.

Common forms include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout and other inflammatory or crystal-induced arthritides. Osteoarthritis results from wear and tear of joint cartilage, while rheumatoid arthritis is autoimmune and causes inflammatory joint swelling. Gout arises from uric acid crystal deposition. Other types include psoriatic arthritis and septic arthritis.

Symptoms typically include joint pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced range of motion. Inflammatory types may cause morning stiffness lasting more than 30 minutes and systemic symptoms such as fatigue. Diagnosis relies on medical history and examination, imaging (X‑ray, ultrasound, MRI) and laboratory tests, including inflammatory markers and disease-specific antibodies or crystal analysis of joint fluid.

Treatment aims to relieve pain, preserve joint function and slow progression. Nonpharmacologic measures include physical therapy, regular exercise, weight management and ergonomic aids. Medications vary by form: analgesics such as acetaminophen; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs; topical agents; disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs or biologics for inflammatory arthritis; gout-specific therapy such as urate-lowering drugs. Severe cases may require joint replacement.

Epidemiology and prognosis vary by form, but arthritis is common, especially among older adults. Early diagnosis and comprehensive management improve outcomes and function. The condition is typically chronic, but many people achieve good symptom control with appropriate treatment.