Tophi (singular: tophus) are firm lumps of urate crystals deposited under the skin, over joints or in cartilage such as the ear, after years of high uric acid. They can ulcerate, damage joints or become infected. Tophi tell rheumatologists that gout is well-established and that a lower urate target is needed; with consistent urate-lowering therapy over 1–2 years, most tophi shrink and can disappear.
What is tophi?
Tophi: Tophi are visible or palpable lumps of urate crystals in the skin, ears, tendons or joints in long-standing gout. They cause deformity and joint damage. Their presence means urate-lowering therapy is essential.
Last updated 2026-07-04. This is general information, not a substitute for personalised medical advice.