Uric Acid in Blood

Results

The blood uric acid test measures the amount of uric acid in a blood sample.

Normal

Normal values of blood uric acid may vary from lab to lab. Results are usually ready within 1 to 2 days.

Uric acid in blood

Men:

3.4–7.0 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)

200–420 micromoles per liter (mcmol/L)

Women:

2.4–6.0 mg/dL

140–360 mcmol/L

Children:

2.5–5.5 mg/dL

120–330 mcmol/L

 

Uric acid crystals sometimes form in joints even at levels less than 7 mg/dL, especially in men. This can lead to a gout attack, even though the uric acid levels are within the normal range.

Many conditions can change uric acid levels. Your doctor will talk with you about any abnormal results that may be related to your symptoms and medical history.

High values

High uric acid values may be caused by:

Low values

Low uric acid values may be caused by:

  • Severe liver disease, Wilson's disease, or some types of cancer.
  • The syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH), a condition that causes large amounts of fluid to build up in the body.
  • Not eating enough protein.
  • Sulfinpyrazone, large amounts of aspirin (1,500 mg or more daily), probenecid (such as Probalan), and allopurinol (such as Aloprim and Zyloprim).

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Author: Maria G. Essig, MS, ELSLast Updated: October 31, 2007
Medical Review: E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Stanford M. Shoor, MD - Rheumatology

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Topic Contents
 Test Overview
 Why It Is Done
 How To Prepare
 How It Is Done
 How It Feels
 Risks
Arrow PointerResults
 What Affects the Test
 What To Think About
 References
 Credits