Uric Acid
CPT Code(s):
84550
Turnaround Time:
4 hours
Specimen Requirements
Preferred Specimen:
Serum
Minimum Volume:
1.0 mL
Transport Container:
Serum Separator Tube (SST) or Red Top Tube
Transport Temperature:
Room Temperature
Collection Instructions:
Allow blood to clot completely prior to centrifugation. Separate serum from cells within 45 minutes of collection.
Rejection Criteria:
Citrate, Fluoride,Sodium Heparin, or EDTA plasma specimen; gross hemolysis; lipemia; improper labeling
Stability Criteria
Room Temperature:
4 days
Refrigerated:
5 days
Frozen:
183 days
Clinical Significance
Uric Acid has specific clinical significance and diagnostic use in evaluating the level of uric acid in a patient's blood. Here are key points regarding its clinical significance:
1. Diagnosis of Gout: Gout is a common form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals in joints. Uric Acid is essential in diagnosing gout as it measures the concentration of uric acid in the blood. Elevated levels of uric acid can indicate the presence of gout or increased risk of developing this condition.
2. Monitoring Uric Acid Levels: Uric Acid is valuable in monitoring uric acid levels over time in individuals with gout or those at risk of developing gout. Regular testing helps healthcare providers assess the effectiveness of treatment interventions, such as lifestyle modifications and medication, to manage uric acid levels and prevent gout flares.
3. Kidney Disease Assessment: Uric acid is primarily excreted by the kidneys. Uric Acid is used to assess kidney function, particularly the kidneys' ability to excrete uric acid. Elevated uric acid levels may indicate impaired kidney function, as seen in conditions like chronic kidney disease. Monitoring uric acid levels helps healthcare providers evaluate kidney health and assess the progression of kidney disease.
4. Metabolic Disorders: Elevated uric acid levels are associated with metabolic disorders, including metabolic syndrome, obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia. Uric Acid is used to identify individuals at higher risk of developing these conditions or to monitor uric acid levels as part of their management.
5. Risk Assessment for Kidney Stones: Uric acid can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. Uric Acid helps identify individuals at risk of developing uric acid stones by assessing their uric acid levels. Monitoring uric acid levels assists healthcare providers in implementing preventive measures and treatment strategies to minimize the risk of kidney stone formation.
6. Monitoring Medication Effects: Some medications, such as diuretics or certain cancer treatments, can alter uric acid levels. Uric Acid is used to monitor the effects of these medications on uric acid metabolism and assess their potential impact on kidney function and the risk of developing gout.
In summary, Uric Acid is clinically significant in diagnosing and monitoring gout, assessing kidney function, identifying metabolic disorders, evaluating the risk of kidney stone formation, and monitoring the effects of medications. Regular monitoring of uric acid levels is crucial in managing gout and related conditions, assessing kidney health, and implementing preventive measures to minimize the risk of complications associated with elevated uric acid levels.