Serum/plasma mass concentration of uric acid (quantitative)
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 fish. High levels may indicate conditions like gout or kidney issues.
["Uric acid levels help diagnose and monitor conditions affecting your metabolism or kidney function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 37869-5
- Short code
- XR Skull Lat+Towne
- Synonyms
- XR Skull Lat+Towne
- 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 they suspect conditions like gout, kidney disease, or certain types of cancer. It may also be used to monitor treatments for conditions that affect uric acid levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if it involves a blood draw, but this depends on your provider’s instructions. Drink plenty of water the day before if you’re having urine tests.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm, or you may provide a urine sample depending on the test type. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range, but exact values can vary by lab. High levels may signal overproduction of uric acid or kidney problems, while very low levels might indicate certain metabolic disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated uric acid levels are often linked to gout, kidney stones, or kidney disease. Chronic high levels can also contribute to cardiovascular risks. Low levels may raise concerns about metabolic disorders or malabsorption issues, though this is less common. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Uric Acid Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes uric acid levels to be too high?
How can I lower my uric acid levels naturally?
Do I need to fast for 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