Research progress of ocular diseases related to gout and hyperuricemia

Gout is a systemic inflammatory disease and one of the most common forms of arthritis worldwide. Hyperuricemia is the leading risk factor for gout, with a high incidence rate. The etiology of gout involves the deposition of urate crystals, secondary inflammation, and oxidative stress. These inflammatory and oxidative stress contribute to the pathogenesis of a variety of ocular disorders. Numerous studies have found a correlation of gout and hyperuricemia with ocular diseases, such as direct urate crystal deposition in ocular structures, dry eye syndrome, corneal endothelial damage, scleritis, uveitis, glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and certain metabolic diseases like thyroid-related eye diseases. Furthermore, because of its antioxidant effect, uric acid levels have been linked to a variety of optic neuropathies, including multiple sclerosis-related optic neuritis and neuromyelitis optica. Although the correlation between uric acid levels and ocular diseases has been reported, many aspects remain unresolved. To gain a more thorough understanding of the association between gout, hyperuricemia, and ocular illnesses, this review will delve into their pathogenesis and disease characteristics, aiming to increase knowledge about gout and hyperuricemia and serving as a reference for future studies.