The ACR/EULAR Gout Classification Criteria (2015) are a standardized scoring system used mainly in research and specialist practice to decide whether a person’s arthritis can be classified as gout. They’re not meant as a standalone “yes/no” diagnostic test, but in real life they often guide diagnosis alongside clinical judgment.
ACR/EULAR Gout Criteria Calculator
2015 ACR/EULAR Gout Classification Criteria (educational use only).
1. Entry & sufficient criteria
If No, the classification criteria should not be applied.
If Yes, the patient can be classified as having gout without further scoring.
2. Clinical features (pattern, characteristics, time course, tophus)
Tick all that have occurred in a symptomatic joint:
0, 1, 2, or 3 features are scored as 0–3 points.
A “typical” episode has ≥2 of: rapid onset (<24h), resolves ≤14 days, complete resolution between attacks.
Draining or chalk-like subcutaneous nodule in typical locations (ears, olecranon, finger pads, tendons).
3. Laboratory
Mandatory for scoring. Use mg/dL (if you have mmol/L, multiply by 16.7). Highest value should be used.
MSU positive = sufficient criterion for gout. MSU negative scores −2 points.
4. Imaging
Ultrasound double-contour sign or DECT showing urate in a symptomatic joint/bursa.
Radiographic erosions in hands/feet typical for gout.
ACR/EULAR gout score
0
Important:
- These are classification criteria, mainly for research, not a stand-alone diagnostic test.
- Interpretation must be done by a clinician who can rule out other causes of arthritis.
- Never start, stop, or change treatment based solely on this calculator.
