Kidney FunctionUpdated 2025-12-24Medically Reviewed
Uric Acid
Everything you need to know about Uric Acid levels, including what normal ranges look like and what abnormal results might indicate.
Standard Reference Range
Unit: mg/dLMale Reference Range
3.7–8.6 mg/dL
Female Reference Range
2.6–6.0 mg/dL
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Reference ranges may vary slightly between laboratories. Always consult your doctor for interpretation.
What is Uric Acid?
Uric Acid is a waste product from the breakdown of purines (found in certain foods and cells). Excess uric acid can form crystals in joints and kidneys.
Key Takeaway
High uric acid causes gout (painful joint inflammation) and kidney stones. It's also linked to metabolic syndrome.
Why is this test performed?
Uric acid testing helps:
- Diagnose gout
- Monitor gout treatment
- Identify kidney stone risk
- Assess kidney function
- Evaluate chemotherapy side effects
Interpreting Your Results
High Levels (Hyperuricemia)
Common Causes:
- Gout
- High purine diet (red meat, seafood, alcohol)
- Kidney disease
- Metabolic syndrome
- Certain medications (diuretics, aspirin)
- Dehydration
- Tumor lysis syndrome (after chemotherapy)
Health Risks:
- Gout attacks
- Kidney stones
- Chronic kidney disease
- Cardiovascular disease
Low Levels (Hypouricemia)
Rarely problematic:
- Low purine diet
- Certain medications (allopurinol)
- SIADH (excess water retention)
- Fanconi syndrome
Managing High Uric Acid
Dietary Changes:
- Limit red meat and organ meats
- Reduce alcohol consumption
- Avoid high-fructose corn syrup
- Increase water intake
- Limit shellfish and sardines
Medications:
- Allopurinol (reduces production)
- Febuxostat (alternative)
- Probenecid (increases excretion)
Clinical Significance
- ＞9 mg/dL: High risk of gout
- 7-9 mg/dL: Moderate risk, lifestyle changes needed
- ＜3 mg/dL: Generally not concerning
Related Tests
- Creatinine: Assess kidney function
- 24-hour urine uric acid: Determine overproduction vs underexcretion
- Joint fluid analysis: Confirm gout diagnosis
Decode your Serum Uric Acid Results
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