The influence of allopurinol on renal function in gout.

Our data demonstrate that adequate control of uric acid production and serum acid concentration in primary gout arrests further deterioration of renal function and in some instances permits subsequent improvement in renal hemodynamic function even when renal impairment is clearly established. In considering the nature of the lesions of urate nephropathy, our study suggests that control of serum uric acid with drug therapy before renal involvement is apparent might prevent or significantly delay the morbidity and mortality of this complication of primary gout.