The Effect of CPAP Treatment on Uric Acid Levels in Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome

Introduction: Recurrent episodes of hypopnea or apnea in obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) leads to sleep fragmentation and intermittent hypoxia, resulting in endothelial dysfunction. As one of its consequences, uric acid levels increase in OSA. Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is the most effective treatment modality in OSA. Whether the levels of uric acid can be ameliorated by CPAP treatment remains inconclusive. The objective of our study is to assess the efficacy of CPAP therapy on uric acid levels among patients with OSA. Materials and Methods: Thirty consecutive moderate-severe OSA patients were prospectively evaluated. The uric acid levels were measured at the time of diagnosis, i.e polysomnography (PSG) and at first year control visit after regular CPAP usage. Results: Comparing the initial uric acid levels with the first year control, a statistically significant reduction was observed. Discussion: Regular CPAP treatment resulted in significant decrease in uric acid levels in OSA patients. Given that uric acid is a marker of endothelial dysfunction, it can be concluded that cardiovascular functions will also be positively affected by regular CPAP use. © 2021, The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. part of Springer Nature.