Urate (Uric Acid) Blood Test
Type
Blood Testing
Duration
15 min
Results
24 hours
Evaluates metabolic markers to understand energy production and cellular health.
A uric acid blood test measures the level of uric acid in your blood — a waste product created when your body breaks down purines, substances found naturally in your body and in certain foods like red meat, organ meats, and shellfish. When uric acid levels are too high (hyperuricemia), crystals can form in your joints causing gout — an intensely painful form of inflammatory arthritis. Chronically elevated uric acid is also associated with kidney stones, chronic kidney disease, and cardiovascular risk. Uric acid testing is used both for diagnosing gout and monitoring treatment effectiveness.
Key Details
- Biomarkers
- 1 (uric acid)
- Fasting Required
- Recommended
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Turnaround
- Same day to 24 hours
- Common Use
- Gout diagnosis, kidney stone risk
Who Is This For?
Anyone experiencing sudden, severe joint pain (especially in the big toe, ankle, or knee). People with a family history of gout or kidney stones. Those on medications that can raise uric acid (diuretics, low-dose aspirin). People with kidney disease, high blood pressure, or metabolic syndrome. Anyone currently being treated for gout who needs to monitor their levels.
What's Included
Preparation Required
Fasting for 8–12 hours is recommended for accurate results. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test, as it significantly affects uric acid levels. Stay well-hydrated with water.
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood draw
- Duration
- 15 min
- Results
- 24 hours