Evaluation of uric acid levels, thyroid function, and anthropometric parameters in Japanese children with Down...

Area of Science:

• Pediatrics
• Genetics
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Down syndrome (DS), a genetic disorder due to trisomy 21, is associated with various congenital abnormalities and developmental delays.
• Patients with DS often experience multiple health complications from infancy through adolescence, necessitating an understanding of comorbidity prevalence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of obesity, overweight, hyperuricemia, and subclinical hypothyroidism in Japanese children and adolescents with Down syndrome.
• To analyze the associations between biochemical data, thyroid function, and anthropometric parameters in this cohort.

Main Methods:

• Evaluation of biochemical data, including uric acid and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels.
• Assessment of thyroid function tests, such as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4).
• Analysis of anthropometric parameters and comorbidities in Japanese pediatric DS patients.

Main Results:

• No significant sex differences were observed in the prevalence of obesity and overweight.
• Boys with Down syndrome exhibited higher uric acid levels and a greater prevalence of hyperuricemia (32%) compared to girls (10%).
• The prevalence of subclinical hypothyroidism was approximately 20% in children with DS, with no significant sex differences. Uric acid and dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels increased with age, while TSH and FT4 levels decreased.

Conclusions:

• Children with Down syndrome demonstrate a higher incidence of hyperuricemia, with notable sex-based differences.
• Routine monitoring of uric acid levels and thyroid function is recommended for individuals with Down syndrome throughout childhood and into early adulthood to manage associated health risks.