[Uric acid--more deleterious than we thought?].
BACKGROUND
Hyperuricaemia is associated with reduced renal function and increased cardiovascular risk. It is still disputed, however, whether hyperuricaemia is an independent cardiovascular risk factor or just a marker of increased cardiovascular risk.


METHODS
A review of the literature based on Medline is presented and data from the LIFE (Losartan Intervention For Endpoint reduction in hypertension) study discussed in relation to the association between uric acid and cardiovascular events.


RESULTS
Epidemiological data have shown an independent relationship between serum uric acid and cardiovascular risk, at least in women. In LIFE, uric acid at baseline corresponded positively with cardiovascular risk in women, though not in men. Differences in serum uric acid during the study could statistically explain 29% of the reduction in cardiovascular events in the losartan group compared to atenolol.


CONCLUSIONS
These findings support the hypothesis that uric acid is an independent cardiovascular risk factor. Further studies are warranted.
Høieggen
Aud
A
Nyremedisinsk avdeling, Medisinsk divisjon, Ullevål universitetsykehus, 0407 Oslo. aud.hoieggen@ ulleval.no
Os
Ingrid
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Kjeldsen
Sverre E
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D047228:Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers / Q000008:administration & dosage; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents / Q000008:administration & dosage; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D033461:Hyperuricemia / Q000150:complications* / Q000209:etiology; D007668:Kidney / Q000378:metabolism; D019808:Losartan / Q000008:administration & dosage; D008297:Male; D016032:Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic; D012307:Risk Factors; D012737:Sex Factors; D014527:Uric Acid / Q000097:blood* / Q000378:metabolism
D047228:Angiotensin II Type 1 Receptor Blockers; D000959:Antihypertensive Agents; D014527:Uric Acid; D019808:Losartan