Association of Serum Uric Acid and Microalbuminuria in Essential Hypertension: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Essential hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular and renal complications. Elevated serum uric acid (SUA) and microalbuminuria (MAU) are independent predictors of endothelial dysfunction and adverse outcomes. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of hyperuricemia and microalbuminuria in essential hypertension and assess their association.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 hypertensive patients aged 18–80 years at Adichunchanagiri Hospital, B.G. Nagara. Patients with chronic kidney disease, diabetes, hypothyroidism, hyperuricemia treatment, renal artery disease, or secondary hypertension were excluded. Clinical evaluation and laboratory tests (SUA, urine albumin-creatinine ratio, renal function, blood glucose, thyroid profile) were performed. Hyperuricemia was defined as SUA >7.0 mg/dL in men and >6.0 mg/dL in women; microalbuminuria as urinary albumin excretion of 30–300 mg/day.

Results: Hyperuricemia was present in 22% and microalbuminuria in 24% of patients. Among hyperuricemic patients, 86.4% had microalbuminuria (p < 0.001). Mean SUA was significantly higher in patients with microalbuminuria (7.30 ± 0.44 mg/dL) compared to those without (5.11 ± 1.02 mg/dL).

Conclusion: A significant positive association exists between SUA and microalbuminuria in essential hypertension. Screening for both parameters can help identify high-risk patients earlier, enabling timely interventions to reduce renal and cardiovascular complications.