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 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.

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
49959-0
Short code
Sp Gr Ur Adjust to pH 7.4
Synonyms
Sp Gr Ur Adjust to pH 7.4
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
adjustment-to-ph
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for high uric acid levels, which can cause gout or kidney stones. It may also be used to monitor conditions like kidney disease, certain cancers, or after treatments that affect how your body processes uric acid.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. If you’re having a blood test, you may be asked to fast for a few hours before your visit. For a urine test, you might need to collect a sample over 24 hours, depending on the instructions from your doctor.

What Happens During the Test?

For a blood test, a healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. For a urine test, you’ll collect a sample in a container, often over a set period (like 24 hours). The sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.

What Are Normal Results?

There are no specific reference ranges provided here because they can vary by lab and method. Your results will be compared to your doctor’s expectations based on your health and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

High uric acid levels in the blood can lead to gout, kidney stones, or kidney damage. Low levels may indicate certain metabolic conditions or medications affecting uric acid metabolism. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your overall health.

Short name

Uric Acid Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes high uric acid levels?
High uric acid levels can be caused by diet (e.g., high-purine foods), kidney problems, certain medical conditions (like diabetes or obesity), or treatments that affect how your body processes uric acid.
How can I lower my uric acid levels?
Lifestyle changes such as reducing purine-rich foods, staying hydrated, and maintaining a healthy weight may help. Your doctor might also recommend medications or supplements if needed.
Does this test require fasting?
It depends on the test type. Blood tests may require fasting, while urine tests often do not. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions.
  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