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Uric Acid, Serum or Plasma Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood, a waste product from purines (chemicals found in foods and your body). High levels may indicate conditions like gout or kidney issues.

Quick summary

["Uric acid levels help diagnose or monitor potential health problems."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
49961-6
Short code
Urate Cl ?Tm Ur+SerPl-vRate
Synonyms
Urate Cl ?Tm Ur+SerPl-vRate
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 Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for gout, kidney disease, or other conditions that affect how your body processes uric acid. It can also help evaluate symptoms like joint pain, kidney stones, or unexplained fatigue.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically have blood drawn from a vein in your arm. No special preparation is needed unless instructed otherwise. Avoid strenuous activity or eating/drinking for 8–12 hours before if specified.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to a general reference range for healthy adults. Very high or very low levels may signal underlying health concerns, but individual results depend on your overall health and medical history.

Common Conditions Monitored

High uric acid levels are linked to gout, kidney disease, or metabolic syndrome. Low levels may be seen in rare genetic conditions or with certain medications.

Reference range

NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: serum

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: Elevated uric acid is often associated with gouty arthritis, kidney stones, or cardiovascular risks. Low levels may indicate metabolic disorders or specific genetic conditions, though they’re less common. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What causes high uric acid levels in my blood?
High uric acid can result from diet (rich in purines like red meat or seafood), kidney problems, genetics, or conditions like diabetes or obesity. Lifestyle changes or medications may also influence levels.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine frequency based on your health needs. Routine checks may occur every 1–3 years for those without known issues, or more often if you have risk factors or symptoms.
Can diet affect uric acid test results?
Yes, diet can impact uric acid levels. High-purine foods, alcohol, and sugary drinks may raise levels. Avoiding these for 24 hours before testing can help provide more accurate results.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy