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Serum or plasma concentration of uric acid (substance concentration)

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

This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood, a natural substance produced when your body breaks down certain foods and substances, including purines found in meat and seafood.

Quick summary

["Uric acid levels help identify conditions like gout or kidney issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
36314-3
Short code
XR Ribs-L 3V
Synonyms
XR Ribs-L 3V
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr
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 risk for gout, kidney stones, or certain blood disorders. It may also be used to monitor conditions like diabetes or heart disease, depending on your medical history.

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 fasting blood panel. Avoid alcohol and certain medications (like aspirin) for 24 hours beforehand if instructed.

How the Test Works

A small 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 an immunoassay or enzymatic method to detect and quantify the substance accurately.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your uric acid levels are too high (hyperuricemia) or too low, which can signal underlying health concerns. High levels may indicate conditions like gout or kidney dysfunction, while very low levels might suggest rare metabolic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

What does a high uric acid level mean?
High uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) can lead to gout—a painful inflammatory arthritis—or form kidney stones. Chronic high levels may also be linked to heart disease or kidney damage, though more research is needed to confirm these connections.
What does a low uric acid level mean?
Low uric acid levels are less common and may suggest conditions like Fanconi syndrome (a kidney disorder) or certain genetic disorders. Your provider will consider your overall health and symptoms to interpret results.
How often should I get this test?
Typically, uric acid tests are ordered as needed—either for diagnosis, monitoring a condition, or during routine check-ups if you have risk factors (e.g., family history of gout or kidney disease). Follow your provider’s advice for timing and frequency.
  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