Uric Acid Test Test
This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood or urine. High levels can lead to gout or kidney stones, but not everyone with high levels has health problems.
What this test measures
This test measures the amount of uric acid in a sample of your blood or urine. Uric acid is a normal waste product your body makes when it breaks down purines, which come from your cells and from foods and beverages.
What your results mean
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.
Higher-than-normal results
High uric acid levels in blood may mean your body makes too much uric acid, your kidneys can't remove it, or you eat too many high-purine foods. It can be related to gout, kidney disease, certain cancers, alcohol use disorder, or preeclampsia. High levels in urine may be related to gout, kidney stones, certain cancers, obesity, or genetic conditions.
Lower-than-normal results
Low uric acid levels in blood are uncommon and usually don't cause health problems. Low levels in urine may be related to kidney disease, lead poisoning, or alcohol use disorder.
Frequently asked questions
What is a uric acid test?
It measures the amount of uric acid in your blood or urine. Uric acid is a waste product from breaking down purines.
Why might I need this test?
To help diagnose gout, monitor uric acid during cancer treatments, or check for kidney stones.
What do high uric acid levels mean?
They may be caused by your body making too much uric acid, kidneys not removing it, or eating too many high-purine foods. They can be linked to gout, kidney disease, or certain cancers.
What do low uric acid levels mean?
Low levels in blood are uncommon and usually not a health problem. Low levels in urine may be related to kidney disease, lead poisoning, or alcohol use disorder.
Do high uric acid levels always cause health problems?
No, many people have high levels without having health problems. Your provider can help interpret your results.
Related lab tests
Sources
- MedlinePlus: Uric Acid Test — NIH MedlinePlus
Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.