Gouty olecranon bursitis

The olecranon bursa cushions the pointed back of the elbow. Urate crystals can irritate it, producing a soft or tense lump, tenderness, warmth, and reduced comfort when leaning on the arm. The bursa may become inflamed during a gout flare or remain enlarged between attacks. Infection and repeated pressure can cause similar swelling, so examination matters. Fluid from the bursa may be tested when the diagnosis is unclear or infection is a concern.

Avoid leaning on the elbow and protect it from repeated knocks. Rest the arm in a comfortable position and use a wrapped cool pack for brief periods if that helps. A clinician may recommend anti-inflammatory medication, treatment aimed at lowering urate, or aspiration to remove fluid and test it. Do not puncture or drain the swelling yourself. Persistent or recurrent enlargement may need specialist review; bursa removal is considered only in selected situations.

Seek urgent assessment if the elbow becomes rapidly red, very hot, increasingly painful, or starts draining, especially with fever, chills, or feeling unwell. Arrange review for a new lump, difficulty bending the elbow, repeated swelling, or symptoms that do not improve. Infection in a bursa needs prompt treatment and can coexist with crystal inflammation.

Ask whether the swelling is gout, infection, pressure-related bursitis, or a combination; whether aspiration is appropriate; and which anti-inflammatory option fits your kidneys, stomach, and other medicines. Ask how to prevent recurrence and when surgery would be considered.