Uric acid; blood
CPT4 code
Name of the Procedure:
Uric Acid; Blood
Common Name(s): Uric Acid Test
Technical/Medical Term: Serum Urate Test
Summary
A Uric acid blood test measures the amount of uric acid in a patient's blood. This substance is a waste product formed from the breakdown of purines, which are found in certain foods and drinks. The results help diagnose various health conditions, including gout and kidney stones.
Purpose
The test helps diagnose gout, a type of arthritis caused by excessive uric acid, and monitor kidney function to detect potential kidney stones. It also assesses whether a patient has conditions that prevent the body from eliminating uric acid properly.
Indications
- Symptoms of gout, such as joint pain and swelling
- Personal or family history of kidney stones
- Monitoring effectiveness of treatments for gout
- Diagnosing conditions like leukemia or hemolytic anemia that change uric acid levels
- Evaluating kidney function in individuals with known kidney problems
Preparation
- No specific fasting requirements unless instructed by a doctor
- Inform your healthcare provider of any medications you are taking, as some drugs can affect uric acid levels
- Stay hydrated, unless told otherwise
Procedure Description
- A healthcare professional will clean the insertion site on your arm with an antiseptic wipe.
- A tourniquet will be placed around your upper arm to fill veins with more blood.
- A needle will be inserted into a vein to draw a blood sample.
- The blood sample is collected into a vial for analysis.
- The needle is removed, and the injection site is covered with a bandage to stop any bleeding.
Duration
The blood draw usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes.
Setting
The procedure is typically done in a healthcare provider's office, clinic, or a hospital lab.
Personnel
A trained phlebotomist or a nurse usually performs the blood draw. The sample is then analyzed by a laboratory technician.
Risks and Complications
- Minor discomfort or pain at the injection site
- Slight bruising or bleeding
- Very rare risk of infection at the puncture site
- Dizziness or fainting for some individuals during the blood draw
Benefits
- Provides a clear diagnosis for conditions related to elevated uric acid levels, such as gout and kidney stones.
- Helps in managing and monitoring ongoing treatments effectively.
- Enables early detection of potential kidney issues. Results are usually available within a few days, allowing for timely treatments.
Recovery
- Minimal to no recovery time; patients can resume normal activities immediately.
- Keep the bandage on for a few hours and avoid heavy lifting with the arm used for the blood draw.
Alternatives
- Urine test for uric acid levels Pros and Cons:
- A urine test can complement the blood test but is not typically sufficient or as precise for diagnosing gout on its own.
Patient Experience
- You might feel a slight pinch or sting when the needle is inserted.
- Post-procedure, you might experience minor soreness at the puncture site, which can be alleviated with over-the-counter pain relievers if necessary.
- Most patients tolerate the procedure well with minimal discomfort.