Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid (qualitative or semi-quantitative screening)
This test checks for the presence of uric acid in your blood, which can help identify conditions like gout or kidney issues.
["Uric acid levels may signal potential health risks related to joint pain or kidney function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 86740-8
- Short code
- S suis Ag Spec Ql ImStn
- Synonyms
- S suis Ag Spec Ql ImStn
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immune-stain
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, kidney problems, or if they suspect conditions like gout, kidney stones, or certain metabolic disorders.
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 fasting panel.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The lab then analyzes the sample to detect uric acid levels, though this test is often qualitative (yes/no) rather than precise.
Possible Results and Next Steps
If uric acid is detected, further testing (like a quantitative uric acid level) may be needed to assess your condition. Follow-up may include lifestyle changes or additional treatments.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Uric Acid Qualitative Screening
Frequently asked questions
High uric acid levels may contribute to gout, kidney stones, or chronic kidney disease. Low levels are less commonly associated with health concerns but may indicate certain metabolic conditions.
A positive result means uric acid was detected in your sample, suggesting potential issues like gout or kidney problems. Your doctor will discuss next steps, such as further testing or treatment options.
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
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