A 60-year-old man presents with acute onset of severe pain, redness, and swelling in his right great toe. He denies any recent trauma. He has a history of hypertension and takes hydrochlorothiazide. Physical examination reveals a warm, exquisitely tender, erythematous right first metatarsophalangeal joint. Arthrocentesis of the joint reveals negatively birefringent needle-shaped crystals. Which of the following medications is the most appropriate for acute symptom relief?
✓ Correct Answer: Option C
The patient has acute gout, confirmed by arthrocentesis showing negatively birefringent needle-shaped crystals. NSAIDs like indomethacin are first-line for acute gout flares, assuming no contraindications. Allopurinol and probenecid are for chronic management and should not be initiated during an acute attack.