U-shaped association between abnormal serum uric acid levels and COVID-19 severity: reports from the Japan COVID-19 Task Force

Abstract

ObjectivesThis study aimed to identify the relationship between abnormal serum uric acid levels or a history of hyperuricemia and COVID-19 severity in the Japanese population. MethodsWe included 1523 patients enrolled in the Japan COVID-19 Task Force cohort between February 2020 and May 2021. We compared the clinical characteristics, including co-morbidities, laboratory findings, and outcomes, particularly invasive mechanical ventilation (IMV), among patients with and without abnormal uric acid levels or a history of hyperuricemia. ResultsPatients with high serum uric acid levels were older and had higher body weight and body mass index than those without. In addition, the multiple logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between high serum uric acid levels or a history of hyperuricemia and an increased risk of IMV (odds ratio [OR] = 1.77; P = 0.03/OR = 1.56; P = 0.04). Moreover, patients with low uric acid levels on admission were also associated significantly with the requirement of IMV (OR = 5.09; P <0.0001). ConclusionAbnormal serum uric acid levels or a history of hyperuricemia were significantly associated with COVID-19 severity in the Japanese cohort.