MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Uric acid

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Uric acid

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Definition How the test is performed How to prepare for the test	Why the test is performed Normal Values What abnormal results mean

Illustrations

Blood test

Uric acid crystals

Definition Return to top

This is a blood test that measures the amount of uric acid.

How the test is performed Return to top

Blood is drawn from a vein or a capillary. The laboratory centrifuges the blood to separate the serum from the cells and the uric acid test is done on the serum.

How to prepare for the test Return to top

Fast for 4 hours before the test. Your medical provider may also advise you to discontinue drugs that may affect the test.

Drugs that can increase uric acid measurements include alcohol, ascorbic acid, aspirin, caffeine, cisplatin, diazoxide, diuretics, epinephrine, ethambutol, levodopa, methyldopa, nicotinic acid, phenothiazines, and theophylline.

Drugs that can decrease uric acid measurements include allopurinol, high-dose aspirin, azathioprine, clofibrate, corticosteroids, estrogens, glucose infusion, guaifenesin, mannitol, probenecid, and warfarin.

Why the test is performed Return to top

This test is performed to detect elevated uric acid levels. Increased levels of uric acid can cause gout.

Uric acid is the end product of purine metabolism (purines are building blocks of RNA and DNA). Most uric acid produced in the body is excreted by the kidneys. An overproduction of uric acid occurs when there is excessive breakdown of cells, which contain purines, or an inability of the kidneys to excrete uric acid.

Normal Values Return to top

Normal values fall between 3.0 and 7.0 mg/dL.

Note: Normal values may vary slightly from laboratory to laboratory.

What abnormal results mean Return to top

Greater-than-normal levels of uric acid (hyperuricemia) may indicate:

Lower-than-normal levels of uric acid may indicate:

Additional conditions under which the test may be performed:

Update Date: 8/18/2003

Updated by: David Webner, M.D., Sports Medicine Fellow, Crozer-Keystone Family Practice Program, Springfield, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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