A Case of Polyarthritis Secondary to Gout with Coexisting Lyme Disease

Author(s): Warsha Ahuja, Supriya Peshin, FNU Vineesha, Dilpat Kumar, Ramsha sohail

This case report details a rare instance of polyarthritis arising from the simultaneous presence of gout and Lyme disease, underscoring the challenges of diagnosing overlapping medical conditions. The patient, a 61-year-old male with a background of chronic health issues, presented with acute pain and swelling in multiple joints. Initial evaluations indicated hyperuricemia, which pointed towards a diagnosis of gout; however, subsequent serological tests confirmed the concurrent existence of Lyme disease. The clinical picture was complicated by the patient's symptoms, which included migratory polyarthritis and elevated inflammatory markers, making diagnosis particularly challenging. The overlapping manifestations of these two distinct conditions required careful consideration to avoid misdiagnosis. Management of the patient involved the administration of anti-inflammatory medications to address the gout, alongside antibiotic therapy for Lyme disease. Remarkably, the patient showed substantial improvement following the initiation of treatment. This case highlights the necessity of considering dual pathologies, especially in regions where both conditions are prevalent. When common diagnoses such as gout do not fully account for the clinical presentation, it is crucial to explore other potential underlying causes. Timely recognition and targeted treatment are vital for alleviating symptoms and preventing further complications. This report serves as a reminder for clinicians to maintain a broad differential diagnosis and remain vigilant for coexisting conditions in patients presenting with complex symptomatology.