This test measures the amount of uric acid in your blood or urine. 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. Foods with high levels of purines include liver, anchovies, sardines, dried beans, and beer.

SPECIMEN: 2 mL (1 mL min.) serum from 1 SST. Ship refrigerated or frozen.

STABILITY: Room: 2 hrs; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 4 weeks

REPORT: Daily

PRE-TEST INFORMATION: No special preparation required.

USAGE: Uric Acid is the end product of protein metabolism. High levels are seen with gout, inherited metabolic disorders of purine metabolism, excessive purine dietary intake and increased cell turnover. Only 10-15% patients with hyperuricemia have gout.