From the Research
Individuals with Down syndrome have significantly higher mean serum uric acid levels compared to normal individuals, as evidenced by a study published in 2014 1 and another in 2004 2, which reported higher uric acid levels in Down syndrome patients. The study published in 2014 found that hyperuricemia occurred in 32.7% of Down's syndrome patients, which was significantly higher than in controls 1. Another study published in 2004 reported that persons with Down syndrome have elevated uric acid levels compared with controls, with a mean uric acid level of 348.56 micromol/l in Down syndrome patients versus 284.00 micromol/l in controls 2. These findings suggest that there is a significant difference in mean serum uric acid levels between individuals with Down syndrome and normal individuals. Some key points to consider include:
- Hyperuricemia is more prevalent in Down syndrome patients, with a reported prevalence of 32.7% in one study 1
- Uric acid levels are higher in Down syndrome patients, with a mean level of 348.56 micromol/l reported in one study 2
- The exact mechanisms underlying the elevated uric acid levels in Down syndrome patients are not fully understood, but may be related to increased oxidative stress and antioxidant mechanisms 2
- Regular monitoring of renal function may be necessary in Down syndrome patients due to the increased risk of renal disease and hyperuricemia 3. However, the most recent and highest quality study, a meta-analysis published in 2024 4, did not specifically address serum uric acid levels, but rather focused on kidney and urogenital abnormalities in Down syndrome. Despite this, the evidence from the 2014 and 2004 studies suggests that Down syndrome patients are at increased risk of hyperuricemia and elevated serum uric acid levels compared to normal individuals.