Uric Acid Level

Description

What is the Test?
The uric acid level test measures the amount of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product formed from the breakdown of purines, substances found in various foods and also produced by the body. Elevated levels can lead to gout, a form of arthritis, or kidney stones.

How the Test is Done?
The test is performed by drawing a blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where the uric acid concentration is measured. The procedure is simple and typically takes only a few minutes.

Preparation Required:
No specific preparation is usually needed, but you may be advised to fast for a few hours before the test. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider about any medications you’re taking, as some can affect uric acid levels.

Significance of the Results:
Normal uric acid levels typically range between 3.5 to 7.2 mg/dL. Elevated levels can indicate conditions like gout, kidney stones, or certain metabolic disorders. Low levels may suggest rare conditions or be related to certain medications. Monitoring uric acid levels helps in managing and diagnosing these conditions effectively.