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Uric Acid, Serum or Plasma (Mass Concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood (serum or plasma) or urine. Uric acid is a waste product from your body’s natural processes and can build up if your kidneys aren’t removing it properly.

Quick summary

["Uric acid levels help diagnose or monitor conditions like gout or kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57386-5
Short code
Urate 2h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Urate 2h Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
400
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82670
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Matters

Uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism, which your body breaks down from foods like red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood. High levels can lead to kidney stones, gout, or other health issues. Low levels may indicate certain metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for a serum or plasma uric acid test. For a 24-hour urine test (if applicable), you’ll collect all urine over a full day, starting after waking up. Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

Common Conditions Monitored

Doctors often check uric acid levels to diagnose or manage gout, kidney disease, or hyperuricemia (high uric acid). It may also be used to assess metabolic syndrome or evaluate responses to treatments like medications or lifestyle changes.

How the Test Works

Your blood or urine sample is analyzed using a highly sensitive method (likely high-performance liquid chromatography or a similar technique) to measure uric acid concentration. The test detects the amount of this compound in your body fluids.

Reference range

Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Serum/Urine Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Uric acid tests are typically ordered when symptoms like joint pain (gout), kidney issues, or unexplained fatigue appear. Your doctor may also recommend it periodically if you have a history of gout, kidney disease, or certain metabolic conditions. Follow their guidance on frequency—it depends on your health status and treatment plan.
What do my results mean?
Results are usually reported as a numerical value (e.g., milligrams per deciliter for serum/plasma). High levels may signal gout, kidney problems, or other metabolic disorders, while low levels could indicate rare conditions like Lesch-Nyhan syndrome. Always discuss your specific results with your healthcare provider, as they’ll interpret them in the context of your overall health.
Can diet or lifestyle changes affect this test?
Yes! Dietary factors like high-purine foods (e.g., organ meats, shellfish) or alcohol can temporarily raise uric acid levels. Staying hydrated, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding excessive alcohol may help lower levels. If you’re making changes, let your doctor know to ensure they’re appropriate for your situation.
  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