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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 in your blood, a natural substance formed when your body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.

Quick summary

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

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
9888-9
Short code
J Pnt Depr L-V6
Synonyms
J Pnt Depr L-V6
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 order this test to check for high uric acid levels, which can cause gout or kidney stones. It may also be used to monitor conditions like kidney disease, certain cancers, or after treatments that affect how your body processes uric acid.

What to Expect Before the Test

You may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some can affect uric acid levels. Avoid consuming alcohol or certain foods (like high-purine foods) for 24 hours before testing.

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 usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

High uric acid levels may suggest conditions like gout, kidney problems, or metabolic syndrome. Low levels might indicate certain genetic disorders or liver/kidney issues. Your provider will discuss results in the context of your overall health.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What could cause elevated uric acid?
Elevated uric acid levels can result from diet (high-purine foods), kidney problems, metabolic syndrome, or certain medications. It may also be linked to genetic factors or conditions like psoriasis or diabetes.
What if my uric acid is high?
If your levels are high, your provider may recommend lifestyle changes (like diet and exercise), medications to lower uric acid, or further testing to identify the cause. Gout attacks may be treated with anti-inflammatory drugs.
How often should I get this test?
Frequency depends on your health status. If you have gout or kidney disease, your provider may order this test regularly to monitor changes. Otherwise, it’s often done as needed for symptoms or diagnostic purposes.
  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