Uric acid urine test

What is Uric Acid Urine Test?

Uric acid urine test is a medical laboratory assay that measures the amount of uric acid found in the patient’s urine sample. Uric acid is produced from a by-product of the breakdown of food in the body. High levels of uric acid in the bloodstream can lead to gout, kidney stones, and other health conditions.

Preparation for Uric Acid Urine Test

Unlike some other medical laboratory tests, a patient typically doesn’t need to take any additional steps in preparation for a uric acid urine test beyond simply avoiding food or drink that could interfere with the test results. However, it’s important to provide an accurate medical history to the laboratory technician.

Procedure of Uric Acid Urine Test

To perform a uric acid urine test, a laboratory technician will collect a urine sample from the patient. This urine sample is then placed into a specialized device, usually a centrifuge, which spins the sample until the uric acid separates from the urine. The resulting measurement is then compared to the concentrations present in other urine samples.

Types of Uric Acid Urine Test

There are two main types of uric acid urine tests: the spot method and the timed method. The spot method involves collecting a single sample of a patient’s urine and then examining that sample to determine the amount of uric acid present. The timed method involves collecting urine over a certain period of time and then measuring the average amount of uric acid present in all of the collected samples.

Risks of Uric Acid Urine Test

The risks associated with a uric acid urine test are generally considered to be minimal. The risks may include minor discomfort associated with providing a urine sample, and the potential of an inaccurate result due to improper sample collection or storage.

Why Is Uric Acid Urine Test Done?

A uric acid urine test is most often done to help diagnose and monitor conditions that are likely caused or influenced by high levels of uric acid in the body, such as gout, kidney stones, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Additionally, uric acid urine tests can be used to track the efficacy of certain medications, such as allopurinol, which is used to treat high uric acid levels.

When Is Uric Acid Urine Test Done?

A uric acid urine test may be done when a patient is initially suspected of having a uric acid-related medical condition. Tests may also be recommended for patients who are known to have, or have a history of, a condition that is associated with high uric acid levels. Uric acid urine tests may also be regularly recommended for patients who have been prescribed a uric acid-lowering medication.