Uric acid as a factor in the metabolic syndrome.

Hyperuricemia is a prevalent finding in patients presenting metabolic syndrome, although its clinical meaning is still controversial and often underestimated. Men and women have different serum urate levels at all ages, and the impact of hyperuricemia in cardiovascular and renal outcomes is generally associated with a worse prognosis in women. Recent studies also have called attention to another perspective on hyperuricemia, indicating that it may be not only a consequence of insulin resistance states but also a significant predictor of the development of metabolic syndrome. This review discusses recent evidence related to the clinical significance of hyperuricemia in both sexes and the potential benefits of lowering serum uric acid levels.