Uric Acid Levels In Relation To Purines

Uric acid is a white, odorless, tasteless crystalline substance that forms as a result of broken-down purines. Purines are found in the nucleotides and nucleic acid of plant and animal tissue. Certain drugs can increase uric acid levels. Uric acid is an end product of metabolized nitrogen containing compounds. It is barely soluble in water and insoluble in alcohol.

Supersaturated uric acid can form kidney stones that can block passage to the bladder. The kidneys excrete uric acid; when too little is excreted, the patient will have increased levels of uric acid in the blood. This condition is known as hyperuricemia. Often patients with high levels of uric acid will suffer pain in their toes or other joints. This usually occurs during increased purine breakdown or when kidneys are unable to sufficiently eliminate the uric acid. High levels of uric acid in the blood cause sodium monourate crystals to collect in the joint fluid, leading to a condition known as gout or gouty arthritis.