Gout is a condition that results from an overload of uric acid in the body. It is characterized by recurrent attacks of acute inflammatory arthritis. This overload of uric acid leads to the formation of tiny crystals of urate that are deposited in tissues of the body, especially the joints. When it involves the metatarsal-phalangeal joint at the base of the big toe (50% of cases), gout is known as podagra.