Research uncovers link between high uric acid and mild cognitive impairment

Reported by Susan Aldridge, PhD, medical journalist

High levels of uric acid linked with mild cognitive impairment, according to a new study.
A blood test to measure levels of uric acid can help to reveal kidney function. Now researchers at Johns Hopkins and Yale university medical schools show that those with higher levels of uric acid do worse on mental tests. Levels of uric acid between 5.8 mg/dL and 7.6 mg/dL in men and 4.8 mg/dL to 7.1 mg/dL in women were linked to poorer mental performance that could be indicative of mild cognitive impairment (MCI) - a condition that sometimes progresses to dementia.

It is already known that kidney disease seems to increase the risk of MCI and dementia. The findings of the current study on uric acid seem to strengthen the connection between impaired kidney function and dementia. It may be possible to use uric acid tests as a screen for MCI. Patients found to be in the higher range should, perhaps, be asked about any problems with memory and thinking. Picking up patients with MCI early on may allow rapid intervention that could stop progress to dementia.

Source
Neuropsychology January 2006