Uric Acid, Serum Concentration
This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood serum. Uric acid is a waste product made when your body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.
["Your blood uric acid level helps assess risk for kidney stones or gout."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 49962-4
- Short code
- Urate Cl/1.73 sq M ?Tm Ur+SerPl-ArVRat
- Synonyms
- Urate Cl/1.73 sq M ?Tm Ur+SerPl-ArVRat
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 3.5
- Ref high
- 7.2
- 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 like joint pain, kidney problems, or if you’re at higher risk for conditions like gout or kidney stones. It can also be used to monitor treatment for these conditions.
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 metabolic panel. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results.
How the Test Works
A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it’s analyzed to measure uric acid levels using a specialized chemical test.
What the Results Mean
Results are reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). High levels may suggest conditions like gout or kidney issues, while low levels might indicate certain metabolic disorders.
Reference range
NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A
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.
High uric acid levels can lead to gouty arthritis, kidney stones, or chronic kidney disease. Low levels may raise concerns about metabolic disorders or certain genetic conditions. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Serum Uric Acid
Frequently asked questions
What causes high uric acid levels?
How can I lower my uric acid levels?
Does fasting affect uric acid test results?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy