Question:hard

Regarding gout, which of the following is the underlying metabolic basis?

Show Hint

Look for the root enzymatic defect, not a complication.
Updated On: Jun 24, 2026
  • Uric acid nephrolithiasis
  • Deficiency of the enzyme involved in purine metabolism
  • Increase in serum urate concentration
  • Renal disease involving the interstitial tissues
Show Solution

The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: The question targets the fundamental metabolic defect behind gout rather than its clinical complications.

Step 2: Gout arises when purine breakdown is faulty because of a missing enzyme in the purine pathway, so purines are not fully processed for renal excretion and uric acid builds up.

Step 3: This enzymatic shortfall raises serum urate, and urate crystals then precipitate in joints to cause the painful attacks.

Step 4: Stone formation, raised serum urate, and interstitial nephropathy are downstream effects, while the enzyme deficiency in purine metabolism is the core cause per this recall key.

\[\boxed{\text{Deficiency of enzyme in purine metabolism}}\]
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