Gout (Uric Acid) Test

About this test

This test measures uric acid in your blood — the substance that builds up and forms sharp crystals in joints when levels are too high, causing gout. It's useful for diagnosing gout, monitoring people being treated for gout or kidney stones, and screening people who take medications that are known to raise uric acid levels.

A single elevated uric acid level doesn't always mean you have gout or will develop it — many people with high levels never have an attack. Conversely, uric acid levels can sometimes be normal during an active gout flare. Your clinician will interpret your result alongside your symptoms and history.

Components

• Uric Acid (serum): Measures the concentration of uric acid in your blood. Uric acid is a natural byproduct of the body breaking down purines — compounds found in foods like red meat, organ meats, shellfish, and alcohol (especially beer). When levels stay too high for too long, uric acid crystallizes in joints (most often the big toe, ankle, or knee), causing the intense pain of a gout attack. High uric acid also increases the risk of kidney stones.

Who is this test for?

This test is most commonly ordered for people who have experienced gout attacks (sudden, severe joint pain — often in the big toe), have a family history of gout, or have been diagnosed with kidney stones. It is also used to monitor uric acid levels in people taking medications that affect uric acid, such as diuretics or low-dose aspirin. A high-purine diet (red meat, shellfish, alcohol) increases risk and may warrant periodic checks.