Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid (substance concentration)
This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood. Uric acid is a waste product your body creates when it breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.
["Uric acid helps identify conditions like gout or kidney issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 90836-8
- Short code
- Hu3 Ab CSF Ql IF
- Synonyms
- Hu3 Ab CSF Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, kidney problems, or if they suspect conditions like gout, kidney stones, or certain types of arthritis. It may also be used to monitor treatments for conditions affecting uric acid levels.
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. Avoid consuming alcohol or foods high in purines (like organ meats, shellfish, or red meat) for 24 hours before testing.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel slight discomfort, but it’s usually over quickly.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range, which can vary by lab. High levels may indicate conditions like gout or kidney disease, while very low levels might suggest certain metabolic disorders or medications affecting uric acid.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High uric acid levels in the blood can lead to gout, kidney stones, or kidney damage. Low levels may signal underlying metabolic issues or the effects of certain medications. Regular monitoring can help manage these conditions effectively.
Short name
Uric Acid
Frequently asked questions
How often should uric acid levels be checked?
What foods or lifestyle changes can help lower uric acid?
Can diet alone lower uric acid levels?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy