Uric Acid, Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of uric acid, a waste product from your body’s natural breakdown of certain foods and substances, found in your blood.
["Uric acid levels help assess kidney function and risk of certain conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57374-1
- Short code
- Oxalate 2h Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Oxalate 2h Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82670
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, kidney problems, or if they suspect conditions like gout, kidney stones, or certain types of arthritis. It may also be part of routine check-ups for people at higher risk of these issues, such as those with a family history of gout or kidney disease.
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 metabolic panel. Bring any medications you’re taking, as some can affect results.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure the uric acid level using a specialized technique, often high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or a similar method.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). High levels may indicate conditions like gout, kidney disease, or certain cancers. Low levels might suggest dehydration or other metabolic issues, though this is less common.
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High uric acid levels can contribute to gout, kidney stones, and cardiovascular risks. Low levels are less frequently significant but may warrant further evaluation if symptoms like fatigue or muscle weakness are present. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Uric Acid
Frequently asked questions
What causes uric acid levels to be too high?
How can I lower my uric acid levels if my test is elevated?
Does fasting affect uric acid test results?
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