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Alternative names, keywords |
Urate |
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Samples required |
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Test indications |
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Factors affecting test performance/ results |
The presence of rasburicase causes degradation of uric acid in blood samples at room temperature. The uricase used in the test reaction reacts specifically with uric acid. Other purine derivatives can inhibit the uric acid reaction. Calcium dobesilate causes artificially low uric acid results. Dicynone (Etamsylate) at therapeutic concentrations may lead to false-low results. N-Acetylcysteine at the therapeutic concentration when used as an antidote to paracetamol poisoning, and the paracetamol metabolite N-acetyl-p-benzoquinone imine (NAPQI) independently may cause falsely low results. Venepuncture immediately after or during the administration of metamizole may lead to falsely low results. In very rare cases, gammopathy, in particular type IgM (Waldenström’s macroglobulinemia), may cause unreliable results. Results should always be assessed in conjunction with the patient’s medical history, clinical examination and other findings. |
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Reference range |
male: 0.20 - 0.42 mmol/L Target for gout prevention is less than 0.36 mmol/L (NICE Clinical Knowledge Summary Preventing Gout) |
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Turnaround time |
Same day (within 1h if urgent) |
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Enquiries |
Biochemistry (Automation) |
Clotted blood (gold cap, 5 mL tube). Smaller tubes are available for paediatric samples.