OVERVIEW:
What is Uric Acid?
Uric acid is a normal waste product that's made when the body breaks down chemicals called purines.
Purines are substances found in your own cells and also in some foods. Most uric acid dissolves in the
blood, and then goes to the kidneys. From there, it leaves the body through the urine. If the body makes
too much uric acid or doesn't release enough into the urine, it can build up inside the body leading to a
variety of health conditions.
What is creatinine?
Creatinine is a waste product which is produced by muscles from the breakdown of a compound known
as creatine. Creatinine is removed by the kidneys from the body.
- When is this test used?
- If the patient can’t collect urine for 24 hours
- If the patient is too young
- To approximate the 24 hour excretion.
- What might affect my test results?
High levels of Ascorbic acid and bilirubin might interfere with the test results.
- How to take the sample?
- Clean your hands and genitals
- Pour mid-stream urine in a sterile container
- Avoid contact of container with genitals
- Wash your hands properly.
- How to prepare for the test?
No special preparations are required for this test. Inform your doctor about your complete medical and drug history.
- Is this test painful?
No, this test will feel like urinating normally but in a container. It is painless.
Interpretation of test results:
Ratio greater than 1.0: Acute uric acid nephropathy
Ratio less than 0.7: Hyperuricemia secondary to kidney insufficiency