Serum or plasma mass concentration of uric acid
This test measures the amount of uric acid, a natural substance produced when the body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and fish. It helps assess kidney function and detect conditions like gout or kidney stones.
["Uric acid levels can signal kidney issues or gout; high levels may require lifestyle changes or medical attention."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 93453-9
- Short code
- W-15 Ur Cfm-mCnc
- Synonyms
- W-15 Ur Cfm-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- confirm
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test to check for kidney problems, such as kidney disease or failure, or to diagnose conditions like gout, where uric acid crystals build up in joints. It may also be used to monitor treatment for conditions affecting uric acid levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. If you’re having blood drawn, avoid eating or drinking for at least 8–12 hours before the test. For urine tests, follow your doctor’s instructions regarding diet or fluid intake.
What Happens During the Test?
For blood tests, a small needle will be inserted into your arm to draw a sample. For urine tests, you’ll collect a sample in a container over a set period (e.g., 24 hours). The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What Do Results Mean?
Results are compared to general reference ranges, but individual results can vary based on age, health, and other factors. High levels may indicate kidney problems or gout; low levels may suggest certain metabolic conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated uric acid levels often signal kidney dysfunction or gout, while persistently low levels may warrant further evaluation for metabolic disorders or nutritional deficiencies. Monitoring trends over time helps track kidney health and treatment effectiveness.
Short name
Uric Acid Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes uric acid levels to be too high?
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet changes affect this test?
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy