Detrimental role of hyperuricemia on the cardio-reno-vascular system.

A bulk of evidence now exists that links gout with adverse cardiovascular (CV) outcomes. However, continuing doubt remains as to whether hyperuricemia can be truly considered an independent major CV risk factor. In fact, many gouty patients who develop major CV and renal events also possess several traditional CV risk factors, the presence of which can potentially confound any relationship between gout and adverse CV events. This paper reviews the available evidence to determine whether sufficient proof exists from biological, epidemiological and clinical trial studies to support a causal relationship between gout and major CV and renal events. This review is based on a PubMed/Embase database search for articles on hyperuricemia and its impact on cardiovascular and renal function.