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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, a natural substance produced when your body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and fish.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9882-2
Short code
J Pnt Depr L-III
Synonyms
J Pnt Depr L-III
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ekg
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 high uric acid levels, which can cause gout, kidney stones, or other health problems. It may also be done if you have symptoms like joint pain, kidney issues, or if you’re at risk for certain conditions based on your medical history or lifestyle.

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. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some can affect results.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis, where uric acid levels are measured using an immunoassay or enzymatic method.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range, but individual ranges can vary. High levels may signal conditions like gout, kidney disease, or metabolic disorders, while very low levels might indicate certain genetic or liver issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What Does This Test Detect or Assess?
This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions such as gout (a form of arthritis caused by urate crystals in joints), kidney disease, or hyperuricemia (elevated uric acid levels). It can also be used to assess how well certain treatments are working for these conditions.
How Might My Results Affect My Treatment?
If your uric acid levels are high, your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes (like diet adjustments), medications to lower uric acid, or further tests to rule out other health concerns. If levels are low, it may not require treatment but could prompt additional evaluation for underlying causes.
Can I Influence My Uric Acid Levels?
Yes! Diet plays a key role—limit foods high in purines (like organ meats, shellfish, and alcohol), stay hydrated, and maintain a healthy weight to help manage uric acid levels naturally.
  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