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Hyperuricemia and gout in thyroid endocrine disorders
N Giordano1, C Santacroce, G Mattii
1Institute of Internal Medicine, University of Siena, Italy. Giordanon@unisi.it
Clinical and Experimental Rheumatology
|January 17, 2002
Summary
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism increase the risk of hyperuricemia. Hypothyroidism also elevates gout risk, while hyperthyroidism leads to increased urate production. Thyroid dysfunction significantly impacts purine metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Thyroid function is linked to purine nucleotide metabolism, particularly in hypothyroidism.
- The relationship between hyperthyroidism and purine metabolism remains debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of hyperuricemia and gout in patients with primary hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.
Main Methods:
- Studied 28 primary hypothyroidism and 18 primary hyperthyroidism patients.
- Evaluated clinical, biochemical, and instrumental parameters.
- Measured thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), uric acid, creatinine, and blood urea.
Main Results:
- Hypothyroid patients showed significantly increased hyperuricemia and gout compared to the general population.
- Hyperthyroid patients exhibited a significant increase in hyperuricemia.
- Hyperuricemia in hyperthyroidism stems from increased urate production; in hypothyroidism, it's due to reduced renal plasma flow and glomerular filtration.
Conclusions:
- Findings confirm a high prevalence of hyperuricemia and gout in hypothyroidism.
- Hyperthyroidism also significantly increases serum uric acid levels, though to a lesser extent than hypothyroidism.