Thanks for answering, Fernando. The bone feels as though it has been growing thicker for a few years, and movement in the finger has got worse and worse (although I can still move it - it is just 'stiff'). The lesions have only just appeared, and something is inside them, but to me, it doesn't feel like liquid. I wouldn't call it 'painful', but it feels 'sharp' (crystals?), and that's why I wondered if it was gout. I do enjoy drinking beer. I take no medicines and I have no diseases and I don't work with chemicals I just assumed it was some kind of arthritis before the lesions developed. Some of my other fingers feel as though they are heading in the same direction as this one (less movement, and same 'sharp' sensation when I touch the joint) I do appreciate your advice. Thanks!