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Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood, a natural waste product formed when your body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.

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
9957-2
Short code
QRS dur L-V3
Synonyms
QRS dur L-V3
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 It’s Ordered

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, kidney problems, or if you’re at risk for gout or kidney stones. It can also be part of routine check-ups for certain conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart 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. Drink plenty of water the day before to help dilute uric acid levels if needed.

What Happens During the Test

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis. The test typically takes a few minutes, and you may feel a slight pinch during the draw.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal levels may suggest conditions like gout, kidney disease, or certain medications that increase uric acid production. Lower-than-normal levels are less common but could indicate genetic factors or certain metabolic disorders.

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 can result from diet (rich in purines), genetics, kidney problems, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or hypertension. Lifestyle factors, such as alcohol consumption or obesity, may also play a role.
What are the symptoms of high uric acid?
Symptoms may include sudden, severe joint pain (especially in the big toe), redness, swelling, or kidney stones. Some people have no symptoms but may have elevated levels detected during routine testing.
How is uric acid treated?
Treatment depends on the cause. Lifestyle changes like diet modifications (reducing purine-rich foods), staying hydrated, and losing weight may help. If needed, your provider might prescribe medications to lower uric acid levels or manage symptoms like gout.
  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