Abstract:

Uric acid is the end product of endogenous and exogenous purine metabolism. Under normal conditions, the synthesis and excretion of uric acid in the body are in a state of dynamic balance. Studies have shown that the level of serum uric acid is strongly associated with female reproductive disorders and pregnancy outcomes. The patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have a higher risk of hyperuricemia than those women of non-PCOS. In women with PCOS undergoing IVF or ICSI, the elevated level of serum uric acid is associated with the decreased rates of clinical pregnancy and live birth, and with the increased risk of low birthweight. Interleukin-1β is a possible connecting bridge between serum uric acid and endometriosis, causing the dysfunction of endometrial metaplasia and infertility. Furthermore, the elevated uric acid in pregnant women can cause gestational hypertension, pre-eclampsia and gestational diabetes mellitus, which can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as premature delivery and low birth weight of offspring. In this article, we review the relationship between uric acid and female reproductive disorders and pregnancy outcomes, to provide a reference for clinical diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Key words: Hyperuricacidemia, Infertility, Pregnancy outcome, Polycystic ovary syndrome, Endometriosis