Question

Which metal results in “Saturnine gout” formation ?

• A. Cadmium
• B. Lead
• C. Beryllium
• D. Mercury

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: The clue is the word "saturnine," historically tied to the metal lead through its old alchemical symbol Saturn.

Step 2: Chronic lead poisoning damages the kidneys and disturbs purine handling, so urate accumulates and deposits in joints, producing gout.

Step 3: A well-known route of exposure is moonshine or illicitly distilled liquor contaminated with lead, which classically triggers this form of gout.

Step 4: The other metals listed produce distinct toxic syndromes and are not associated with this gouty arthritis. Therefore lead is the answer.

\[\boxed{\text{Lead}}\]