The 24-Hour Uric Acid Urine Test is a diagnostic procedure that measures the amount of uric acid excreted in urine over a 24-hour period. Uric acid is a waste product that's produced when the body breaks down purines, substances found in certain foods and beverages, including liver, anchovies, mackerel, dried beans and peas, and beer.
Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood, passes through the kidneys, and is eliminated from the body in urine. However, if the body produces too much uric acid or fails to excrete enough of it, it can lead to the formation of hard, needle-like urate crystals. These crystals can accumulate in the joints, causing a painful condition known as gout. The 24-Hour Uric Acid Urine Test is often used to determine whether an individual is producing too much uric acid or failing to excrete it effectively.
Test NameUric acid - 24 hours urine
Sample TypeUrine
Preparations RequiredThere are no specific instructions for this test. However, you will need to collect all urine produced over a 24-hour period. It's best to avoid alcohol and unusually rich or purine-heavy foods for a few days before the test. Usual hydration should be maintained unless otherwise specified by your healthcare provider.
Report Time6 hours
What is a 24-Hour Uric Acid Urine Test?
A 24-Hour Uric Acid Urine Test measures the amount of uric acid that is excreted in the urine over a 24-hour period.
Why is the 24-Hour Uric Acid Urine Test done?
The test is used to determine if your body is producing too much uric acid or not excreting enough of it. It helps in diagnosing gout and kidney disorders, and monitoring individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
Home Sample Collection Process
1
Book your convenient slot
2
Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
3
Reporting of the sample at lab
4
Download Reports
Frequently Asked Questions
You will be given a special container to collect all urine produced over a 24-hour period. The sample is then sent to the lab for analysis.
High levels of uric acid in the urine can indicate that your body is producing too much uric acid. It can be associated with conditions such as gout, leukemia, and kidney stones.
Low levels of uric acid in the urine can suggest that your kidneys are not effectively excreting uric acid, which can be due to kidney disease or certain medications.
The test is non-invasive and poses minimal risks. Some individuals may find the 24-hour urine collection process inconvenient, but there are no health risks associated with the test itself.
There are no specific preparations needed for this test. However, it's advised to avoid alcohol and foods high in purines for a few days before the test.
The results of a 24-Hour Uric Acid Urine Test are typically available within 1 to 3 days.
If you forget to collect some urine, it's crucial to inform your healthcare provider as it can affect the accuracy of the results.
Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, limiting alcohol and foods high in purines, and staying well-hydrated can help manage uric acid levels. In some cases, medication may be required.
High levels of uric acid in the urine can increase the risk of kidney stones. However, a urine test alone is not enough to diagnose kidney stones.
If your uric acid levels are abnormal, your healthcare provider may recommend additional tests such as a blood test, kidney function tests, or imaging tests to further investigate the cause.
Certain medications can affect uric acid levels, including diuretics, low-dose aspirin, and some drugs used for treating gout. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medication you are taking.
High uric acid levels often do not cause symptoms until they lead to conditions such as gout or kidney stones.
Yes, diet can influence uric acid levels. Foods high in purines, such as red meat, shellfish, and alcohol, can increase uric acid levels.
To ensure the accuracy of the test, make sure to collect all urine produced over the 24-hour period and follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
Treatment for high uric acid levels typically involves lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication to help lower uric acid levels and prevent gout attacks.
If left untreated, high uric acid levels can lead to the development of gout, kidney stones, or kidney disease.
Yes, urine collection for the test can be done at home, but the sample must be sent to a lab for analysis.
Yes, the 24-Hour Uric Acid Urine Test can be performed during pregnancy. However, always consult your healthcare provider before undergoing any new test or treatment while pregnant.
