Kidney & Electrolytes
Uric Acid
Kidney & Electrolytes
Elevated in gout, kidney disease and metabolic syndrome.
VAT-exempt medical service
Purines are natural compounds found in many foods and in the body's own cells. When they are broken down, uric acid is formed and normally excreted through the kidneys. Problems arise when the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys remove too little, leading to elevated blood levels that can trigger gout -- a painful form of arthritis -- or contribute to kidney stones.
A uric acid test is recommended if you have symptoms of gout, want to monitor kidney function, or wish to include this marker in an annual health screen. It is also useful for tracking the effect of dietary changes, especially if you consume a lot of red meat, seafood, or alcohol.
What a high value can mean
Elevated uric acid (hyperuricaemia) can occur when the body overproduces uric acid, the kidneys excrete less than normal, or the diet is high in purine-rich foods such as red meat, organ meats, certain seafood, alcohol, and high-fructose corn syrup. High levels increase the risk of gout and kidney stones.
What a low value can mean
Low uric acid is relatively uncommon and may be associated with certain liver or kidney conditions, as well as alcoholism. It is usually not clinically significant on its own.
No fasting is required. Bring a valid ID.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
Red meat, organ meats (liver, kidneys), certain seafood (sardines, anchovies, tuna), alcohol (especially beer), and foods with high-fructose corn syrup are the main dietary contributors.
Yes. When uric acid levels are persistently high, crystals can form in the kidneys and lead to urate kidney stones.
No. Many people have elevated uric acid without experiencing gout. However, the higher the level, the greater the risk of developing symptoms over time.