Skip to content

Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid (substance concentration)

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 made when your body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.

Quick summary

["Uric acid levels help identify conditions like gout or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
54023-7
Short code
U1 snRNP-C Ab Ser Ql
Synonyms
U1 snRNP-C Ab Ser Ql
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms of gout (such as joint pain, swelling, or redness), kidney problems, or if you're at risk for kidney stones. It may also be used to monitor certain medical conditions or treatments.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast before the test, depending on your healthcare provider’s instructions. Bring any medications you’re currently taking to your appointment.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your blood or plasma is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab, where it is analyzed to determine the uric acid concentration.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your uric acid levels are too high or too low. High levels may indicate conditions like gout or kidney disease, while very low levels might suggest certain metabolic disorders or medications affecting uric acid metabolism.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What causes high uric acid levels?
High uric acid levels can result from diet (eating too much purine-rich foods), genetics, kidney problems, or certain medical conditions like diabetes or hypertension. Lifestyle factors, such as being overweight or not staying hydrated, can also play a role.
What are the common symptoms of high uric acid?
Symptoms of high uric acid, particularly gout, include sudden, severe joint pain (often in the big toe), swelling, redness, and warmth in the affected joint. Some people may not have symptoms at all, especially if levels are only mildly elevated.
How often should I get this test?
Your healthcare provider will determine how often you need this test based on your health history, symptoms, and any ongoing conditions. Follow their advice for scheduling follow-up tests.
  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