Gout. Arthroscope (endoscope) view of deposits of uric acid crystals (yellow) causing gout in a knee. The crystals are on the synovium (synovial membrane), the lining of the capsule that encloses the joint. This metabolic disorder results in painful joint inflammation, or arthritis. Often a single joint is affected at first, although other joints may become inflamed during later attacks. Avoiding foods such as offal, poultry and pulses can help to lower high blood levels of uric acid. Most attacks are controlled with anti-inflammatory drugs. However, recurring attacks are treated with drugs to limit uric acid formation or increase its rate of excretion.