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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 produced when your body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.

Quick summary

["Uric acid levels help assess your risk for kidney stones or gout and monitor certain health conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
18567-8
Short code
J Pnt ST Amp+60ms L-V6
Synonyms
J Pnt ST Amp+60ms 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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for conditions like gout, kidney disease, or high uric acid levels that could lead to kidney stones. It may also be used to monitor treatments for conditions affecting uric acid metabolism.

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 blood draw. If you’re taking medications that affect uric acid levels, let your provider know.

How the Test Is Done

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is quick and typically painless. The blood sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your uric acid levels are too high or low, which can indicate underlying health issues. Your provider will compare your results to standard ranges and discuss them with you.

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?
High uric acid levels can result from diet (eating too much purine-rich food), genetics, kidney problems, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or obesity. Lifestyle factors, such as alcohol consumption or dehydration, may also play a role.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your provider will contact you once they’re ready for review.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
For most uric acid tests, fasting is not required unless specified by your provider. If you’re unsure, ask your healthcare team for guidance.
  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