Uric Acid $35.00
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This examination encompasses 1 test accompanied by 1 biomarker.
Description:
The Uric Acid examination quantifies the concentration of uric acid present in the bloodstream. Uric acid emerges as a byproduct during the breakdown of purines, substances that are prevalent in various food items and bodily tissues.
Commonly Referred to As:
Urate Serum Examination, Uric Acid Quantification
Method of Collection:
Venipuncture
Type of Specimen:
Blood Serum
Instructions Prior to Test:
Fasting or special preparation is not required.
Appropriate Scenarios for Ordering a Uric Acid Test:
Identification of Gout:
Gout manifests as an arthritic condition marked by sudden, intense joint pain, alongside swelling and redness. Evaluating the uric acid concentration aids in diagnosing gout, as elevated levels may lead to its onset.
Uric Acid Level Management:
Individuals with recurrent gout episodes or kidney stones tied to heightened uric acid concentrations may undergo this test. It serves to gauge treatment efficacy and make indispensable modifications.
Evaluating Renal Performance:
Given that the kidneys play an integral role in purging uric acid from the body, this test is also instrumental in appraising kidney functionality, ensuring they are effectively eliminating uric acid.
Purines, nitrogen-containing compounds found in every cell of the body and in DNA, are broken down into uric acid. The Uric Acid blood test measures the amount of uric acid in the blood or urine, providing insights into the body’s purine metabolism.
As cells age and die, they release purines into the bloodstream. Additionally, certain foods such as liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas, and alcohol (especially beer) contribute to the body’s purine content. The kidneys play a critical role in filtering out the majority of uric acid from the body, excreting it through urine, while a smaller portion is expelled through feces.
An imbalance in the production or elimination of uric acid can lead to elevated levels in the body. This excess uric acid can precipitate and form crystals in joint fluid, leading to joint inflammation and gout. Beyond joints, excess uric acid can also accumulate in tissues, potentially leading to kidney stones or kidney failure.
The reasons for an elevated uric acid level in the body can vary. It may be due to overproduction of uric acid, insufficient elimination, or a combination of both.
Conditions such as certain cancer treatments can escalate cell death, thus increasing uric acid production. On the other hand, compromised kidney function due to kidney disease often leads to reduced uric acid elimination. Additionally, there are rare genetic conditions that predispose individuals to produce excessive amounts of uric acid.
The Uric Acid test is frequently accompanied by a range of other lab tests, including:
- Complete Blood Count (CBC): This test provides an overview of the health of your blood, measuring various components including red and white blood cells, and platelets.
- Iron Total and Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC): These tests assess iron levels in your blood, helping to understand various conditions related to iron metabolism.
- Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP): This is a broad panel of tests that evaluates various chemicals in your blood, providing information about the health of your liver, kidneys, and other organs.
- Lipid Panel: This test measures the levels of different types of cholesterol and fats in your blood, contributing to the assessment of cardiovascular risk.
- Urinalysis Complete: This is an examination of urine, which provides insights into the health of your urinary system and can help in identifying issues in other body systems.
Situations where a Uric Acid test is specifically recommended include:
Gout:
As a painful form of arthritis caused by the buildup of urate crystals in the joints, gout’s diagnosis and management can be aided by the Uric Acid test. Elevated levels of uric acid are a risk factor for developing gout, making this test crucial in both diagnosis and ongoing monitoring of the condition.
Kidney Stones:
With one type of kidney stones being formed due to high levels of uric acid in urine, the Uric Acid test is vital. It assists in identifying individuals at risk of developing uric acid stones, guiding both preventative strategies and treatment plans.