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Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid (substance concentration)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood, a natural substance produced when your body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.

Quick summary

["Uric acid helps identify conditions like gout or kidney issues."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
103119-4
Short code
English walnut (rJug r) 1 IgE RAST
Synonyms
English walnut (rJug r) 1 IgE RAST
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
10
Ref high
40
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
rast
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302774002
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order a uric acid test to check for high levels, which can cause gout or kidney problems. It might also be done if you have symptoms like joint pain, kidney stones, or other health concerns linked to uric acid buildup.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it’s part of a broader blood panel. Drink plenty of water the day before to help your kidneys process uric acid.

What Happens During the Test?

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a small pinch, but it only takes a few minutes. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are the Results?

Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., milligrams per deciliter). Your provider will compare these results to your individual reference range to determine if further action is needed.

Reference range

Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

High uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) can lead to gout, kidney stones, or kidney disease. Low levels may indicate certain metabolic conditions or kidney dysfunction. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What causes high uric acid levels?
High uric acid can result from diet (rich in purines), kidney problems, certain medications, or genetic factors. Lifestyle changes like diet and exercise may help manage levels.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time.
Can I lower my uric acid naturally?
Yes! Reducing alcohol, limiting high-purine foods (like organ meats and shellfish), staying hydrated, and maintaining a healthy weight may help lower uric acid levels.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy