Uric Acid

Formal name: Uric Acid
Related tests: Synovial Fluid Analysis, Kidney Stone Analysis

• Why should I do it?

To detect high levels of uric acid in the blood, which could be a sign of the condition gout or to monitor uric acid levels when undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment; to detect high levels of uric acid in the urine in order to diagnose the cause of kidney stones and to monitor those with gout who are at risk of developing such stones

• When should I do it?

When you have joint pain or other symptoms that your doctor suspects may be due to gout; when you have had or are going to have certain chemotherapy or radiation therapies for cancer; when you have recurrent kidney stones; when you have gout or are otherwise at risk for kidney stone formation

• What Kind of Sample is Needed?

A blood sample drawn from a vein in the arm or a 24-hour urine sample

• Test Preparation Needed?

None may be needed; however, some institutions recommend fasting. Follow any instructions you are given.