Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid (substance concentration)
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 fish.
["Uric acid helps protect joints and supports healthy cells, but high levels may indicate health concerns."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 103118-6
- Short code
- English walnut (rJug r) 3 IgE RAST
- Synonyms
- English walnut (rJug r) 3 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test to check for conditions like gout, kidney disease, or to monitor treatment for conditions affecting uric acid levels. It can also help diagnose or evaluate symptoms such as joint pain, kidney issues, or other metabolic disorders.
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 involves a fasting sample. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a slight prick, but the procedure is quick and typically painless. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range, which can vary by lab and individual factors. High uric acid levels may signal conditions like gout or kidney problems, while very low levels might warrant further investigation for underlying health issues.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated uric acid levels are often associated with gout, kidney stones, or chronic kidney disease. It can also indicate metabolic syndrome or certain genetic disorders. Low levels may suggest malabsorption, liver disease, or other metabolic disturbances. Regular monitoring helps manage these conditions effectively.
Short name
Uric Acid
Frequently asked questions
What causes uric acid levels to change?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect uric acid test results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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