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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 chemicals.

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
10703-7
Short code
O+P Stl Kinyoun IH Stn
Synonyms
O+P Stl Kinyoun IH Stn
Category
chemistry
Sample
stool
Container
Clean container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
kinyoun-iron-hematoxylin-stain
Specimen volume
5 g
Stability
Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism, which occurs naturally in the body. High levels can sometimes lead to conditions like gout, kidney stones, or other health concerns. This test helps doctors monitor these risks or diagnose related problems.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. If you’re on a low-purine diet or have been advised to avoid certain foods (like organ meats or alcohol) for a few days, your doctor may specify this.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., milligrams per deciliter). While reference ranges vary by lab, high levels may signal potential issues like kidney problems or gout, while very low levels might warrant further investigation.

Common Reasons for Testing

Doctors may order this test to check for gout, kidney disease, or other metabolic conditions. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress for conditions linked to uric acid levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Uric Acid Levels

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What causes high uric acid levels?
High uric acid can result from diet (e.g., high-purine foods), genetics, kidney problems, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or hypertension. It may also appear after intense exercise or dehydration.
What causes low uric acid levels?
Low uric acid levels are less common but may occur with certain genetic disorders, liver disease, or medications that affect purine metabolism. Rarely, it can be linked to kidney function or metabolic disorders.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your health status, symptoms, or treatment plan. Regular monitoring may be needed if you have a history of gout, kidney disease, or other conditions linked to uric acid levels.
  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