Correlation between hyperuricemia and coronary artery calcification

This review aims to systematically explore the association between hyperuricemia and the degree of coronary artery calcification. We conducted a narrative review of scientific studies published over the past 5 years that examined the relationship between hyperuricemia and coronary artery calcification. The focus was on synthesizing evidence from epidemiological investigations, mechanistic studies, and clinical trials. Recent evidence confirms a significant epidemiological association between elevated serum uric acid levels and the prevalence and progression of coronary artery calcification. Mechanistic studies have identified multiple pathways through which uric acid promotes calcification, including inducing oxidative stress, causing endothelial dysfunction, triggering the phenotypic transformation of vascular smooth muscle cells into osteoblast-like cells, and fostering chronic inflammation. Hyperuricemia contributes to the development and progression of coronary artery calcification through a complex interplay of pathological mechanisms.