Uric Acid, Spot Urine
Understanding Uric Acid, Spot Urine
What is Uric Acid, Spot Urine?
Uric Acid, Spot urine test is a simple and quick diagnostic procedure that evaluates the amount of uric acid in the urine sample. Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of purines, naturally present in our body's tissues and in certain foods. When there is a problem with the kidneys, the level of uric acid released in the urine becomes abnormally high or low. When the body produces too much uric acid or the kidneys do not filter enough out, high uric acid levels (hyperuricemia) can occur. Over time, it can form uric acid crystals which accumulate in the joints and cause a painful condition called gout. On the other hand, low levels of uric acid (hypouricemia) can indicate poor kidney function or exposure to toxic substances.
What is Uric Acid, Spot Urine used for?
- If you have joint pain especially in the toes or other symptoms suggesting gout
- If you have recurrent kidney stones to assess the cause
- If you have had or are going to have certain chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer
Interpreting Uric Acid, Spot Urine results
Interpretations
Higher than normal uric acid in the blood is called as hyperuricemia and can be caused by over production of uric acid in the body or inability of kidneys to remove excess uric acid
- Increased levels of uric acid can be seen in a disease called as gout or sometimes in kidney stones
- Low levels of uric acid is much less common and is seen in liver or kidney disease, exposure to toxic compounds or Wilson’s disease