Why is a uric acid test performed?

A healthcare provider typically requests this test to observe how the body produces and clears this natural byproduct.

Which foods contain higher amounts of purines?

Items such as red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, and beverages containing alcohol or sweetened syrups naturally contain higher amounts of purines.

Can daily habits alter uric acid levels?

Routine variations in fluid intake, physical exertion, and recent meals can cause day-to-day shifts in measured levels.

This forms when the body breaks down purines, building blocks found in some foods and in dying cells. The kidneys filter most of it out, and any excess can form sharp crystals. You have this test to look for a raised uric acid level, which can go with joint or kidney trouble.

What is a normal uric acid level range?

A typical adult range is around 3.5–7.2 mg/dL (males); 2.6–6.0 mg/dL (females). No India-specific national reference interval is published for this parameter; your lab's printed range is the most reliable comparison. Ranges vary by lab, method and equipment — the range printed on your own report is the one that applies to your result.

Understanding your Uric Acid results

Uric acid is a natural waste product created when the body breaks down substances called purines, which are found in cells and everyday foods. It travels through the bloodstream to the kidneys, where it is filtered out and leaves the body during urination.

What is the normal Uric Acid range?

India: No India-specific national reference interval is published for this parameter; your lab's printed range is the most reliable comparison.
International: 3.5–7.2 mg/dL (males); 2.6–6.0 mg/dL (females)

Ranges vary by lab, method and equipment — the range printed on your own report is the one that applies to your result.

Source: [American College of Rheumatology (ACR), 2020]

What does a high Uric Acid result mean?

A high level can mean your kidneys clear less uric acid, or you take in more purines, or more cells are breaking down. It is worth discussing with your doctor.

What does a low Uric Acid result mean?

A very low level is uncommon and can go with certain enzyme differences.

What affects your Uric Acid result?

Blood levels can be influenced by daily diet, hydration status, alcohol intake, and how efficiently the kidneys filter waste.

Purine-rich foods (red meat, shellfish)
Kidney clearing
Body weight
Some medicines (water pills)
Sex and age

Frequently asked questions

Why is a uric acid test performed?: A healthcare provider typically requests this test to observe how the body produces and clears this natural byproduct.
Which foods contain higher amounts of purines?: Items such as red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, and beverages containing alcohol or sweetened syrups naturally contain higher amounts of purines.
Can daily habits alter uric acid levels?: Routine variations in fluid intake, physical exertion, and recent meals can cause day-to-day shifts in measured levels.
What is Uric Acid?: This forms when the body breaks down purines, building blocks found in some foods and in dying cells. The kidneys filter most of it out, and any excess can form sharp crystals. You have this test to look for a raised uric acid level, which can go with joint or kidney trouble.
What is a normal uric acid level range?: A typical adult range is around 3.5–7.2 mg/dL (males); 2.6–6.0 mg/dL (females). No India-specific national reference interval is published for this parameter; your lab's printed range is the most reliable comparison. Ranges vary by lab, method and equipment — the range printed on your own report is the one that applies to your result.

Full reference guide

Uric Acid reference ranges

Other test results explained

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