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Uric Acid

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 10, 2026

A blood test that measures the level of uric acid in your blood to evaluate kidney function and detect metabolic disorders.

Quick summary

{"Uric acid is a waste product formed when the body breaks down purines","High levels may indicate kidney problems, gout, or other metabolic conditions","The test requires a simple blood draw, typically fasting for 8-12 hours","Normal range is typically 3.5-7.2 mg/dL for men and 2.4-6.1 mg/dL for women","Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may include medication or dietary changes"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 10, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
3084-1
Short code
UA
Synonyms
—
Category
kidney
Sample
serum
Container
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Plain Red Top Tube
Units
mg/dL
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
7.2
Critical range
2 mg/dL – 12 mg/dL
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
uricase
CPT
84560
SNOMED
365906006
Specimen volume
1 mL minimum, 3.5 mL preferred
Stability
Room temperature: 72 hours, Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days, Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Hemolysis max
50
Lipemia max
300
Icterus max
20
TAT
1–4 hours

What is this test?

The uric acid blood test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood serum. Uric acid is a natural waste product that forms when your body breaks down chemicals called purines, which are found in certain foods and are also produced by your body. Normally, uric acid is filtered out of the blood by your kidneys and excreted in urine.

Why is it important?

This test helps healthcare providers assess how well your kidneys are functioning, as they are responsible for removing uric acid from your body. It also helps diagnose conditions like gout (a painful form of arthritis), kidney stones, and certain metabolic disorders. Monitoring uric acid levels is important for patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy, as these treatments can cause cells to break down rapidly.

How is the test performed?

A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood from a vein in your arm using a needle. The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You may be asked to fast (not eat or drink anything except water) for 8-12 hours before the test for accurate results. It is important to inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as certain drugs can affect uric acid levels.

Understanding your results

Normal uric acid levels typically range from 3.5 to 7.2 mg/dL for men and 2.4 to 6.1 mg/dL for women, though reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Elevated levels (hyperuricemia) may indicate kidney dysfunction, gout, consumption of purine-rich foods, alcohol use, or certain medications. Low levels (hypouricemia) are less common and may result from liver disease, malnutrition, or certain genetic conditions.

Reference range

Adult males: 3.4-7.0 mg/dL; Adult females: 2.4-6.0 mg/dL; Children: 2.0-5.5 mg/dL; Note: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and populationmg/dL

Specimen: serum

Patient should avoid high-purine foods (red meat, organ meats, seafood, alcohol) for 24 hours prior to collection. Inform physician of current medications including diuretics, aspirin, and vitamin C supplements.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

UA

Part of panels

renal-comprehensivekftkidney-disease-screeningelderly-comprehensive-healthhealth-check-comprehensivecmphealth-check-executivemale-comprehensive-healthfemale-comprehensive-health

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to prepare for the uric acid test?
You may be asked to fast for 8-12 hours before the test. Inform your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and supplements you are taking, as some can affect test results. Avoid alcohol and purine-rich foods (such as red meat, organ meats, and seafood) for 24 hours before the test if possible.
What happens if my uric acid levels are high?
High uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) may indicate gout, kidney problems, or other conditions. Your doctor will recommend treatment based on the underlying cause, which may include dietary changes (reducing purine-rich foods), increasing water intake, medications to lower uric acid (such as allopurinol or febuxostat), or treating an underlying kidney condition.
Is the test painful?
You may feel a brief sting or pinch when the needle is inserted to draw blood. The procedure typically takes only a few minutes. Some people may experience minor bruising or soreness at the injection site afterward, but this usually resolves quickly.
How often should I have my uric acid checked?
The frequency of testing depends on your individual health situation. If you have been diagnosed with gout or kidney disease, your doctor may recommend regular monitoring. Patients on uric acid-lowering medications may need periodic tests to ensure the treatment is effective. Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Uric Acid TestSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Uric AcidSource
  3. 3
    National Kidney Foundation - Uric Acid and Kidney DiseaseSource

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 10, 2026. · Read our editorial policy