Uric Acid in Urine

The uric acid in urine test measures the amount of uric acid excreted in the urine. Uric acid is a normal waste product produced when purines, which are natural substances found in the body and in foods like liver, shellfish, and alcohol, break down. Purines also form when DNA is broken down.

Normally, uric acid is eliminated from the body through urination or bowel movements. However, if your body produces too much uric acid or if your kidneys are not functioning properly, uric acid can build up in the blood. High uric acid levels can also result from eating too many purine-rich foods or taking medications such as diuretics, aspirin, vitamin C, and niacin. This can lead to the formation of uric acid crystals, which accumulate in the joints and cause painful inflammation, a condition known as gout. Additionally, excess uric acid can result in the formation of kidney stones.

Why is this test needed?

This biochemical urine analysis may be required if your doctor suspects gout. It is also indicated for monitoring your condition during cancer therapy.

Symptoms of gout include:

• Red skin around the joint
• Joints that are warm to the touch
• Swelling and pain affecting a single joint
• Skin that appears shiny and red or purple

You might also need this test if you have symptoms of kidney stones, such as severe pain in the lower back, nausea, vomiting, an urgent need to urinate, and blood in the urine.

Is the uric acid in urine test safe?

Yes, it is completely safe and carries no known risks.

What can affect the test results?

Certain medications can impact your test results, including:

• Aspirin and other drugs containing salicylates
• Cyclosporine, sometimes used for autoimmune diseases
• Levodopa, used to treat Parkinson’s disease
• Some diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide, and vitamin B-3 (niacin)

Other factors that can influence your results include intense exercise, chemotherapy or radiotherapy for cancer treatment, and consuming purine-rich foods like mushrooms, certain fish and seafood, dried peas, and beans.

How to prepare for this test?

Consult your doctor about any necessary preparations before the test. You might need to avoid certain foods or stop taking specific medications. Make sure to inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking, including both prescription and over-the-counter items.

Understanding your test results

Test results can vary based on your age, sex, medical history, and other factors. Typically, adults excrete about 500 to 600 milligrams (mg) of uric acid in their urine over 24 hours. On a normal diet, losing more than 750 mg daily is considered excessive.

What health issues can cause increased uric acid in the urine?

Several health conditions can lead to higher uric acid production, including:

• Gout
• Leukemia
• Obesity
• Cancer therapy
• Ileostomy
• Glycogen storage diseases
• Lesch-Nyhan syndrome

If you have any questions about the uric acid in urine test, please contact the team at IntroLab, a private laboratory in Belgrade. We are here to assist you!