Uric Acid - Male

Introduction

As a Nurse Practitioner with an autonomous practice in Florida, it’s vital to provide patients with comprehensive, evidence-based insights into various health markers. Today, we will explore the biomarker uric acid, specifically in males, and discuss its background, clinical implications, ranges, interfering factors, and how certain drugs can affect its levels. Understanding uric acid’s role in the body can help in identifying and managing conditions like gout, cardiovascular function, and renal insufficiency.

Background of Uric Acid

Uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism, nucleic acid, and nucleoprotein breakdown. Produced primarily in the liver and excreted by the kidneys, about two-thirds of uric acid is eliminated in urine and one-third in stool. The enzyme xanthine oxidase plays a key role, especially when tissue oxygenation is reduced.

Discussion on Uric Acid Levels

Normal and Optimal Ranges

• Standard Range (U.S.): 3.45 – 8.00 mg/dL
  
• Standard Range (SI): 205.21 – 475.84 µmol/L
  
• Optimal Range (U.S.): 3.50 – 5.40 mg/dL
  
• Optimal Range (SI): 208.18 – 321.19 µmol/L
  
  

Clinical Implications of Low Uric Acid Levels

Low uric acid can suggest detoxification issues, molybdenum deficiency, or B12/folate anemia. Evaluate red blood cell indices—RBC – Male, MCV, and MCHC—and consider a methylmalonic acid test. Copper deficiency may also be implicated.

Clinical Implications of High Uric Acid Levels

1. Gout: Crystal deposition in joints, often with low phosphorus, high cholesterol, BUN, and variable creatinine.
   
2. Cardiovascular Disease: Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress contribute to atherosclerosis and stroke risk.
   
3. Rheumatoid Arthritis: Persistent inflammation may drive elevated uric acid and warrant a Inflammation workup.
   
4. Renal Insufficiency: Reduced clearance leads to accumulation; assess renal insufficiency.
   
5. Circulatory Disorders: Poor perfusion and cardiovascular function issues can raise uric acid via xanthine oxidase activation.
   
6. Intestinal Hyperpermeability: Linked to systemic inflammation—consider intestinal hyperpermeability repair.
   
   

Interfering Factors

• Daily/Seasonal Variations: Fluctuations in uric acid require serial measurements.
  
• Obesity & Stress: Both elevate uric acid.
  
• Dietary Purines: High intake from red meat, organ meats, shellfish, legumes increases levels.
  
  

Drug Associations

• Decreased Levels: High-dose aspirin, heavy metal exposure.
  
• Increased Levels: Corticosteroids, thiazide diuretics, low-dose aspirin, caffeine, theobromine.
  
  

Conclusion

In conclusion, a comprehensive evaluation by a functional medicine practitioner integrates uric acid assessment into a holistic metabolic and cardiovascular health plan. By combining precise biomarker profiling with targeted nutritional support, gut microbiome optimization, and advanced therapeutics, this approach transcends symptom management to restore balance and optimize wellness. Contact us at 904-799-2531 or schedule online, and explore our IV therapy and regenerative medicine services for personalized support.

Further Reading

1. Serum Uric Acid and Cardiovascular Risk in the Framingham Heart Study — Circulation. 2006;113(2):271–276. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16461874/
   
2. Uric Acid as a Predictor of Chronic Kidney Disease — Kidney Int. 2007;71(1):80–86. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17053839/
3. Hyperuricemia and Inflammation: A Review — Expert Rev Clin Immunol. 2015;11(4):557–623. PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25613427/