How uric acid levels are measured
Uric acid forms when the body breaks down purines. A blood test can measure serum urate, while a urine test can help answer different questions about how uric acid is being handled.
Results are commonly reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) in the United States. The reference interval printed by the laboratory should accompany the result because methods and ranges can differ.
What a high or low result may mean
A higher blood uric acid level can occur when the body produces more uric acid or when the kidneys remove less. Kidney function, medicines, alcohol, dietary patterns, hydration status, and other health conditions may affect interpretation.
High uric acid is associated with gout, but many people with a high result do not have gout. Symptoms, examination, repeat testing, and sometimes joint-fluid testing may be needed before a diagnosis is made.
How to record a useful uric acid trend
For each result, record the date, value, unit, laboratory or device, relevant instructions, symptoms, and medicine changes. A consistent record is easier to review than isolated screenshots.
- Use the exact value and unit shown on the report.
- Keep the laboratory reference range with the result.
- Identify home-device readings separately from laboratory results.
- Do not change prescribed medicine based on one number.
Questions to ask about your result
- Is this result outside the laboratory range for me?
- Should the result be repeated or confirmed?
- Could kidney function, medicine, or another condition affect it?
- What symptoms should prompt urgent evaluation?
- How often, if at all, should I monitor uric acid?