Uric Acid

The Uric Acid test is a diagnostic tool used to measure the concentration of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid is a waste product formed from the breakdown of purines, which are substances found in foods such as organ meats, seafood, and alcoholic beverages. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood and is excreted through the kidneys. However, if the body produces too much uric acid or if the kidneys are unable to excrete it efficiently, uric acid levels can become elevated, leading to hyperuricemia. Elevated levels of uric acid can predispose individuals to conditions such as gout, a type of arthritis characterized by sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, and redness in the joints, typically affecting the big toe. High uric acid levels may also contribute to the formation of kidney stones or be associated with certain metabolic disorders. The Uric Acid test is typically ordered by healthcare providers to diagnose and monitor conditions related to abnormal uric acid levels, guiding treatment decisions and monitoring the effectiveness of interventions such as dietary changes, medication, or lifestyle modifications.