Uric acid is a natural waste product formed when the body breaks down purines, which are substances found in many foods and are also produced by the body. Understanding uric acid levels is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing various medical conditions.
This crystalline compound plays a significant role in human metabolism and can become problematic when levels become too high or too low. Elevated uric acid levels can lead to serious health complications, including gout, kidney stones, and cardiovascular issues.
Microscopic view of uric acid crystals
Uric acid has the chemical formula $C_5H_4N_4O_3$ and is classified as a heterocyclic compound. It consists of:
Uric acid is the final product of purine metabolism in humans. The process involves several enzymatic steps:
The human body produces approximately 300-400 mg of uric acid daily.
Population | Normal Range (mg/dL) | Normal Range (μmol/L) |
---|---|---|
Adult Men | 3.4 - 7.0 | 202 - 416 |
Adult Women | 2.4 - 6.0 | 143 - 357 |
Children | 2.0 - 5.5 | 119 - 327 |
The most common method for measuring uric acid levels:
Used to measure uric acid excretion:
Hyperuricemia is defined as serum uric acid levels above 7.0 mg/dL (416 μmol/L) in men and above 6.0 mg/dL (357 μmol/L) in women.
Typical appearance of a gout-affected joint
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis caused by the deposition of uric acid crystals in joints and surrounding tissues. It affects approximately 4% of adults in developed countries and is more common in men than women.
High uric acid levels without symptoms
Sudden, severe joint pain attacks
Symptom-free periods between attacks
Permanent joint damage and tophi formation
Drug Class | Mechanism | Examples |
---|---|---|
Xanthine Oxidase Inhibitors | Reduce uric acid production | Allopurinol, Febuxostat |
Uricosurics | Increase uric acid excretion | Probenecid, Lesinurad |
Uricases | Break down uric acid | Pegloticase |
Maintain healthy weight and improve metabolism
8-10 glasses of water daily
Gradual weight loss if overweight