Urine acid measurement in the urine is used to evaluate and manage patients with kidney stones, especially uric acid stones as well as to evaluate renal failure.
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Uric acid is formed as the adenine and guanine purines are continuously metabolized during the formation and degradation of ribonucleic acid (RNA) and deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) and by the metabolism of the purines consumed by the diet. After its synthesis in the liver by the action of xanthine oxidase, part of the uric acid is excreted in the urine. When increased amounts of uric acid circulate in the serum (hyperuricemia), they are deposited in the joints and soft tissues and cause gout, an inflammatory reaction to the deposition of uric acid crystals. Increased cellular renewal and decreased renal excretion of uric acid may cause hyperuricemia. Increased amounts of uric acid in the urine can lead to kidney stones.
Purine-rich foods that can contribute to gout include caffeinated soft drinks, anchovies, vegetables, spinach, asparagus, mushrooms, meats, liver, sauces, yeast.
Possible Interpretations of Pathological Values
- Increase: Chronic myelogenous leukemia, arthritis, high purine diet, infection, liver disease, nephrolithiasis, true polycythemia, sickle cell anemia, Wilson's disease, injury. Medications: Ascorbic acid, aspirin (high doses), cytotoxic drugs, phenylbutazone (high doses), probenecid (high doses), radiolabels, sulfinpyrazone.
- Decrease: Acidosis, alcoholism, folic acid deficiency, glomerulonephritis, lead poisoning, kidney disease, urinary tract obstruction. Medications: Aspirin (low doses), diuretics, phenylbutazone (low doses), probenecid (low doses).
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
