Skip to content

Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid (standard method)

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, such as purines found in meat and seafood.

Quick summary

["Uric acid helps your body form urate crystals, which can sometimes cause gout or kidney stones if levels are too high."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11571-7
Short code
RA Nuc Ab Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
RA Nuc Ab Ser-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 treatment for conditions affecting uric acid metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw. Avoid strenuous activity or consuming alcohol for 24 hours beforehand.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. You may feel a small pinch, but the procedure usually takes less than five minutes. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are reported as a concentration value (e.g., milligrams per deciliter, mg/dL). While reference ranges vary by lab, higher-than-normal levels may indicate conditions like gout or kidney issues, while very low levels could suggest certain metabolic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

High uric acid levels can contribute to gout, kidney stones, or chronic kidney disease. Low levels may raise concerns about metabolic disorders or liver/kidney dysfunction, depending on clinical context. Always discuss results with your provider.
Uric acid levels are important for diagnosing gout or kidney stones, but they’re not the only factor. Your provider will consider your symptoms, medical history, and other test results to make a diagnosis.
What causes uric acid levels to rise?
Uric acid levels can rise due to diet (high-purine foods), genetics, kidney problems, or certain medications. Lifestyle factors like alcohol consumption and obesity may also play a role.
How can I lower my uric acid levels naturally?
Staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing alcohol intake, and avoiding high-purine foods (like organ meats and shellfish) may help. Always consult your provider before making dietary changes.
  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