uric acid estimation

Uric acid estimation is a laboratory test used to measure the level of uric acid in blood or urine samples.

Methods
1. *Phosphotungstic acid method*: A colorimetric method that uses phosphotungstic acid to measure uric acid levels.
2. *Uricase method*: An enzymatic method that uses the enzyme uricase to measure uric acid levels.

Clinical significance
1. *Gout diagnosis*: Elevated uric acid levels can indicate gout or kidney stones.
2. *Kidney function*: Uric acid levels can be used to assess kidney function and monitor kidney disease.
3. *Monitoring treatment*: Uric acid levels are monitored in patients undergoing treatment for gout or kidney stones.

Factors affecting uric acid levels
1. *Diet*: A diet high in purines (found in foods like red meat, seafood, and beer) can increase uric acid levels.
2. *Kidney function*: Impaired kidney function can lead to elevated uric acid levels.
3. *Medications*: Certain medications, such as diuretics and cyclosporine, can increase uric acid levels.