Serum or plasma uric acid concentration (qualitative/quantitative screening)
This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood or plasma. Uric acid is a waste product your body creates when breaking down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.
["Uric acid helps your body remove waste, but high levels may indicate health concerns like gout or kidney issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14554-0
- Short code
- MuV Ag Penis Ql IF
- Synonyms
- MuV Ag Penis Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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 if you have symptoms like joint pain, kidney problems, or a history of conditions linked to high uric acid, such as gout or kidney stones. It may also be part of routine check-ups for certain groups at higher risk.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a blood draw (from a vein) or a urine sample collected, depending on the type of test ordered. If it’s a blood test, you might feel a slight pinch, but it usually takes a few minutes to complete.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a concentration (e.g., milligrams per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, very high levels may suggest conditions like gout or kidney disease, while very low levels could indicate other metabolic or genetic factors.
Common Causes of High or Low Uric Acid
High uric acid levels can result from diet (rich in purines), kidney problems, certain medications, or metabolic disorders. Low levels may occur due to genetic conditions, liver or kidney disease, or certain medications. Lifestyle factors like diet and hydration also play a role.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Uric Acid Level (Screen)
Frequently asked questions
What does a high uric acid level mean?
What does a low uric acid level mean?
How often should I get this test?
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