Which type of arthritic condition is characterized by acute onset and often involves a single joint?

The condition characterized by acute onset and often involving a single joint is gout. Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that results from the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joint, leading to sudden and severe episodes of pain, redness, and swelling. Typically, gout primarily affects one joint at a time, especially the big toe, but it can also involve other joints in the foot, ankle, and knee.

The acute episodes are often triggered by factors such as diet, alcohol consumption, or dehydration, making the pattern of occurrence quite distinct. This is in contrast to other types of arthritis, which may have different patterns of joint involvement or duration of symptoms. For example, rheumatoid arthritis usually presents as a chronic and symmetrical polyarthritis, affecting multiple joints over time. Septic arthritis, while it could start acutely and might affect a single joint, is typically associated with systemic symptoms and requires immediate medical attention. Osteoarthritis generally develops gradually and affects weight-bearing joints symmetrically rather than suddenly. Thus, gout's unique presentation aligns with the characteristics described in the question, making it the correct answer.