Clinical trials in crystal arthropathy.

A few clinical trials have evaluated therapeutic agents for crystal-associated arthropathy. Most of the studies are uncontrolled and observational. Management of patients who have acute crystal arthropathies usually is symptomatic with long-term management depending on crystal composition. In trials of gout, studies focus on acute symptomatic treatment, foregoing chronic management, which is aimed at reducing the concentration of serum urate. In those who have calcium crystals, however, there is no definitive or effective long-term treatment in chronic gout. The xanthine oxidase inhibitor and uricosurics are the agents used most commonly. Newer compounds in clinical trials show promise as effective and safe therapeutic options.