A hereditary disease of ancient lineage that is caused by a derangement in purine metabolism, particularly uric acid synthesis. Uric acid is a normal breakdown product of purine metabolism and is derived from either ingested foods or body tissues. The disease is characterized by increased levels of blood uric acid (hyperuricemia), inflammatory arthritis, tophaceous deposits of urate crystals, renal insufficiency, and urolithiasis. Hyperuricemia is caused by increased production or decreased renal excretion of uric acid.