Serum Uric Acid and Vitamin D Profiles in Glaucoma Patients: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

Abstract

Introduction: Glaucoma, characterized by optic nerve damage linked to inflammation and oxidative stress, is often associated with elevated intraocular pressure (IOP). This study focused on vitamin D, a fat-soluble vitamin known for its anti-inflammatory properties, and uric acid (UA), an antioxidant molecule that scavenges nitrogen radicals and superoxide in plasma, as biomarkers. The primary aim was to evaluate serum levels of vitamin D and UA in glaucoma patients within Indian patients.

Materials and Methods: The study included 78 glaucoma patients and 80 age- and sex-matched controls. Blood samples for biochemical analysis were obtained by venipuncture from the antecubital vein using red-capped vacutainers (6 mL). Serum levels of vitamin D and UA were quantified using radioimmunoassay (RIA) and enzymatic methods, respectively. Statistical analysis utilized Microsoft Excel 2019 and SPSS 19.0. The Shapiro–Wilk W test assessed data normality. Significance levels were set at p < 0.05 (significant). Unpaired two-tailed t-tests were used for comparisons.

Results: The analysis indicated that the mean serum vitamin D level in the glaucoma group was 22.25 ± 6.99 ng/mL, compared to 27.72 ± 2.45 ng/mL in the control group. Similarly, the mean UA level was 4.83 ± 1.13 mg/dL in the glaucoma group, compared to 5.98 ± 1.66 mg/dL in the control group. The study found that serum levels of both vitamin D and UA were significantly lower in glaucoma patients compared to healthy controls.

Conclusion: The findings of this highlight the potential clinical value of routinely measuring serum vitamin D and UA in individuals suspected of having glaucoma. The results may assist ophthalmologists in the management and monitoring of glaucoma patients.