In brief
Measures uric acid (urate), a waste product made when the body breaks down substances called purines. It helps diagnose gout.
What it measures
Uric acid in blood or urine. Purines are found in foods such as red meat, offal and some seafood, and in alcohol.
Why it is done
To help diagnose gout, to monitor the risk of kidney stones in people with gout, and during cancer chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Reading the results
- A high level means the body is not handling the breakdown of purines well.
- A uric acid test is not enough to diagnose gout by itself.
- Many people with high blood levels of uric acid never develop gout.
Before the test
None.
What can affect the result
- Alcohol and purine-rich foods
- Occasional low-dose aspirin
- Many other medicines
Related topics
Sources
Test information summarised from the sources listed on this page, read on 19 October 2026. General education only, not medical advice. Spotted a mistake? Please tell us through the HuBu-Intel contact page.