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Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid (substance concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood. Uric acid is a waste product from the breakdown of certain substances in your body, including purines found in foods and certain medications.

Quick summary

["Uric acid levels help diagnose and monitor conditions related to purine metabolism and kidney function."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
58428-4
Short code
EDDP Ur Ql Cfm
Synonyms
EDDP Ur Ql Cfm
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
confirm
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like gout, kidney disease, or other metabolic disorders. It can also help evaluate how well your kidneys are removing uric acid from your blood.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. If you’re having blood drawn, you may want to drink plenty of water the day of the test to help dilute uric acid levels slightly, though this isn’t always necessary.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The process is quick and typically painless. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Normal Results?

There are no specific numeric reference ranges provided here since they can vary by lab and patient factors. Your results will be compared to your individual baseline or clinical context.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What causes high uric acid levels?
High uric acid levels can result from diet (e.g., high-purine foods), kidney issues, certain medications, or metabolic disorders. Lifestyle factors like obesity or alcohol consumption may also play a role.
What are the symptoms of high uric acid?
Symptoms may include joint pain (especially in the big toe), kidney stones, or swelling in the joints. Some people with high uric acid may not have symptoms at all.
Can diet changes help lower uric acid?
Yes, reducing foods high in purines (e.g., organ meats, shellfish) and staying hydrated can help. Your provider may also recommend medications if needed.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy