Uric acid is produced during the metabolism of purines (found in certain foods and body cells).

Normally, it is excreted by the kidneys. Elevated levels may lead to crystal deposition in joints and tissues, causing gout.

Clinical uses include:

Diagnosing and monitoring gout and hyperuricemia.

Evaluating renal function and uric acid excretion.

Detecting metabolic disorders (e.g., tumor lysis syndrome, Lesch‑Nyhan syndrome).

Monitoring patients on chemotherapy or radiation therapy (risk of uric acid buildup).

Often performed alongside renal function tests, electrolytes, and complete metabolic panels.

Analyte: Serum Uric Acid (mg/dL).

Normal Range (varies by lab):

Men: ~3.5–7.2 mg/dL

Women: ~2.6–6.0 mg/dL

Abnormal Findings:

High uric acid (hyperuricemia): Gout, kidney disease, dehydration, high purine diet, tumor lysis syndrome.

Low uric acid (hypouricemia): Certain kidney disorders, SIADH, low purine intake, some medications.

Clinical Use:

Provides a marker of purine metabolism and renal excretion.

Helps guide diagnosis and management of gout and kidney disease.

Supports oncology, nephrology, and metabolic evaluations.