Uric acid

Uric Acid in Serum – Test Description 

The measurement of uric acid plays a very important role in monitoring the health of many patients. Uric acid is formed from the breakdown of three purines derived from food, endogenous synthesis, and the breakdown of nucleic acids. It should be excreted from the body, mainly through the kidneys. However, there are often disturbances in its excretion, and an excessive amount can accumulate, which can lead to serious diseases. 

In terms of uric acid, blood tests to determine its concentration can help quickly diagnose a condition and initiate effective treatment. This is particularly important for gout, the main symptom of which is inflammation of a specific joint, such as the base of the big toe. 

Uric Acid Blood Test – Indications  

The test for gout is not the only case when the uric acid level in a patient’s blood should be determined. A doctor may also order it if there is suspicion of kidney stones. In this case, deposits form that result in painful kidney colic. Uric acid tests are also routinely performed in the course of cancer treatment when chemotherapy is being used. This is necessary to prevent tumor lysis syndrome. Uric acid testing is also carried out during the progression of kidney disease or to assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

Elevated uric acid levels, known as hyperuricemia, occur in: 

• gout, 

• kidney failure, 

• preeclampsia, 

• hyperthyroidism, 

• diuretic therapy, 

• cancer diseases, 

• postprandial period, 

• alcohol abuse 

How Is the Uric Acid Blood Test Performed?

The blood sample for the uric acid test is collected from a vein in your arm. The procedure is very similar to other tests, with a needle being inserted into the vein, after which the blood is collected in a test tube. The whole procedure lasts only a few minutes and does not require any special preparation.

Interpretation of the Results 

Normal blood levels of uric acid in men are approximately 3.5 – 7.2 mg/dl, and in women, they range from 2.6 – 6.0 mg/dl. These values may vary slightly depending on the laboratory performing the test. Elevated levels suggest that uric acid may have been deposited in tissues, which could lead to the development of gout or other diseases. This is especially true if a patient has characteristic symptoms, such as joint pain, swelling, or the presence of kidney stones. Low levels of uric acid are not often diagnosed, but may suggest kidney dysfunction, increased excretion, or certain rare genetic conditions.

What to Do If the Uric Acid Levels Are Elevated? 

The most important aspect of managing elevated uric acid levels is controlling the cause. If it is due to poor excretion by the kidneys, adjusting medications, changing lifestyle factors, or using specific drugs to lower the levels may help. In the case of gout, medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, or urate-lowering drugs may be prescribed. A proper diet, weight management, and reducing alcohol intake can help in reducing uric acid levels. If the levels are persistently high, patients may need to undergo further treatment to prevent joint damage or kidney complications.