URIC ACID

• Why Take this Test

  By the breakdown of purines uric acid is produced. Purines are nitrogen-containing compounds found within the cells of the body, including our DNA. The level of uric acid in the blood or urine is measured this test. If an excessive amount of acid is produced or not enough is removed, it can accumulate within the body, causing increased levels within the blood (hyperuricemia). The presence of excess Uric acid can cause Gout, a condition characterized by inflammation of the joints because of the formation of Uric acid crystals within the joint (synovial) fluid. Excess acid also gets deposited in tissues like the kidney, resulting in kidney stones or renal failure. As cells get old and die, they break down, releasing purines into the blood.

• Is this Test For You

  Your doctor might recommend Uric acid test for you if you show signs of Gout. The symptoms include:

  Pain or swelling near the joints and/or toes, ankle or knee

  Reddish skin near your joints

  Your doctor will recommend this test also when you show signs of kidney stone like:

  Excruciating pain in the abdomen

  Back pain

  Frequent Urination

  Cloudy urine

• More Information

  To a lesser extent, purines may come from the digestion of certain foods, like liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas and certain alcoholic drinks, primarily beer. Most acid is removed from the body by the kidneys and is eliminated from the body through urine, with the rest eliminated via stool.

Sample: Serum (2 mL)

Methodology: Uricase - Peroxidase