What is this test?
- This laboratory test is performed on a urine sample to measure the levels of uric acid in urine. Uric acid is a purine-breakdown product. It is a normal component of the urine.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To detect abnormal levels of uric acid in the urine
- To help in the diagnosis of gout
- To help in the diagnosis of kidney stones
- To monitor the uric acid levels in patients undergoing chemotherapy.
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. However, inform your doctor about your complete medical and drug history before this test. Avoid the consumption of alcohol before and during the test.
- What are the symptoms of gout?
- Tenderness of joints
- Swelling of joints
- Redness of joints
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Kidney stones
- Tophi (painless, crystal deposits)
- Compromised mobility of joints.
- What are the symptoms of kidney stones?
- Blood in urine
- Severe pain in lower back
- Urinary frequency
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Fever and chills.
- Which medicines might affect my test results?
- Ibuprofen
- Aspirin
- Water pills
- Which foods are high in purines?
- Shellfish
- Beer
- Alcohol
- Liver
- Red meat.
INTERPRETATION OF THE RESULTS:
Normal uric acid range:
- Adult Female: 2.4 to 6.0 mg/dL
- Adult Male: 3.4 to 7.0 mg/dL
- Children: 2.0 to 5.5 mg/dL
If your blood test results show high uric acid levels, it can mean you have:
- Kidney disease
- Preeclampsia, a condition that can cause dangerously high blood pressure in pregnant women
- A diet that includes too many purine-rich foods
- Alcoholism
- Side effects of cancer treatment
Low levels of uric acid in the blood are uncommon and not usually cause for concern.