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Uric Acid, Serum

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

Quick summary

["Uric acid levels help assess kidney function and potential risk for conditions like gout."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
19791-3
Short code
Insert depth UGI EGD
Synonyms
Insert depth UGI EGD
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.8
Ref high
1.2
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
egd
CPT
85610
SNOMED
396252006
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 It’s Done

Your doctor may order this test to check for kidney problems, gout, or other metabolic conditions. It can also help monitor treatments for conditions like high blood pressure or heart disease.

What to Expect

A small blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The test is quick and done in a clinic or lab.

Factors That Can Affect Results

Certain foods, medications (like diuretics), dehydration, or recent exercise can temporarily change uric acid levels. Always inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you take.

Common Conditions Monitored

High uric acid levels may indicate kidney issues, gout, or metabolic disorders. Low levels might suggest certain genetic conditions or malabsorption problems.

Reference range

INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A

Specimen: serum

Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What causes high uric acid levels in the blood?
High uric acid can result from diet (e.g., high-purine foods), kidney problems, genetic factors, or conditions like diabetes or obesity. Lifestyle and medical factors play a role.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Your doctor will discuss them with you during your follow-up.
Can diet changes affect uric acid test results?
Yes, diet—especially foods high in purines (e.g., red meat, shellfish)—can temporarily raise uric acid levels. Avoiding alcohol and staying hydrated may help stabilize results.
  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