Gout Tests

Uric Acid Blood Test

This is a simple test to measure the level of uric acid in the blood. Uric acid levels above 6 mg/dL are considered high. Although high uric acid levels are associated with gout, not everybody with high uric acid develops gout symptoms, and a person having an acute gout attack may not have high uric acid levels.

Joint Aspiration

In this procedure, also called arthrocentesis, a needle is used to remove a sample of synovial fluid—which lubricates the joints—from the affected joint. Looking at the fluid under a microscope can reveal the urate crystals that cause the pain and inflammation of gout.

X-ray

In cases of chronic gout, doctors may take x-rays of the affected joints to determine if they have incurred any permanent damage.