An uric acid test measures the amount of uric acid in a sample of your blood or urine. Uric acid is a natural waste product that your body creates when it breaks down chemicals called purines. Purines are found in your cells when they die, and also in many foods and beverages.
This test is commonly used to:
- Diagnose gout: High uric acid levels in the blood can lead to gout, a painful condition caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints.
- Monitor gout treatment: The uric acid test helps doctors determine if medication for gout is working effectively.
- Diagnose kidney stones: High levels of uric acid in the urine can increase the risk of developing kidney stones.
- Identify other health conditions: High levels of uric acid can sometimes indicate other conditions, such as kidney disease, leukemia, or psoriasis.
Uric acid tests are usually performed on a blood sample, but they can also be done on a urine sample. In a blood test, a small sample of blood is drawn from a vein in your arm. In a urine test, you will be asked to collect your urine over a 24-hour period.
The results of a uric acid test are usually available within a few days. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and explain what they mean for your health.
