Biochemistry · Gout & Kidney
Uric Acid Test
Measures serum uric acid levels — a key test for diagnosing gout, assessing kidney stone risk, and monitoring urate-lowering therapy.
From Purines to Pain — The Uric Acid Story
Every cell in your body contains DNA, and when cells die and DNA is broken down, the purine bases (adenine and guanine) are metabolised into uric acid as a final waste product. Dietary purines — abundant in red meat, organ meats, shellfish, and alcohol — add to this load. Normally the kidneys filter uric acid out efficiently, but when production exceeds excretion, levels build up in the blood.
At high concentrations, uric acid precipitates out of solution as sharp monosodium urate crystals that deposit in joint spaces — triggering the excruciatingly painful inflammation of gout, often striking the big toe first. The same crystals in the urinary tract form kidney stones. Serum uric acid testing allows early detection and monitoring before these painful complications develop.
Reference Ranges
| Category | Normal Range | Gout / High Risk |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Men | 3.5–7.2 mg/dL | > 7.2 mg/dL |
| Adult Women | 2.6–6.0 mg/dL | > 6.0 mg/dL |
| Post-menopausal Women | 3.5–7.2 mg/dL | > 7.2 mg/dL |
| Children | 2.0–5.5 mg/dL | — |
Symptoms of High Uric Acid
Preparation
A 4-hour fast is preferred for the most accurate results. Avoid high-purine foods (red meat, organ meat, shellfish, beer) the day before the test. Drink plenty of water. Aspirin and diuretics can affect levels — inform your doctor.
Test Price at Velys Hospital
₹150
Inclusive of collection · Same-day report
Book Uric Acid Test at Velys Hospital
Nephrology & Rheumatology support · Same-day results · Ahmedabad