Evaluation of the Uric Acid/Albumin Ratio in Acute Pericarditis Patients: Implications for Recurrence Rates and Hospitalization Duration

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Aim: Acute pericarditis is inflammation of the pericardium, the membrane surrounding the heart. It typically presents with sudden chest pain, fever and general malaise. The uric acid/albumin ratio can help assess patients' inflammatory status and monitor their response to treatment. Our aim is to evaluate the effect of uric acid/albumin ratio on the probability of recurrence and hospital stay in pericarditis patients. Methods: This study is designed as a retrospective cohort study. Patients' demographic information, clinical findings and laboratory tests were evaluated. Treatment data were collected, including medications used (NSAIDs, colchicine, corticosteroids), duration of treatment, and length of hospital stay. Recurrence cases, hospital stays and the need for additional treatment were evaluated. Results: The median age was 42 years, with a range of 18 to 65 years. The uric acid/albumin ratio showed a significant positive correlation with CRP (ρ = 0.182, p = 0.005) and troponin levels (ρ = 0.483, p < 0.001), indicating its association with inflammatory and cardiac stress markers. Additionally, a negative correlation was observed with hemoglobin levels (ρ = -0.535, p < 0.001). Conclusion: The uric acid/albumin ratio offers a novel and insightful approach to evaluating acute pericarditis, providing a composite marker of inflammation, oxidative stress, and nutritional status. Its significant associations with clinical severity and recurrence risk highlight its potential role in guiding patient management and improving outcomes.