Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science (CSMLS) Practice Exam

Which clinical condition is associated with increased uric acid levels?

1. Gout

2. Rectal cancer

3. Liver disease

4. Prostatic cancer

The correct answer is: Gout

Increased uric acid levels are primarily associated with gout, which is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by the deposition of uric acid crystals in the joints. Uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism, and when its levels become elevated, it can lead to the formation of these crystals. This results in intense pain, swelling, and redness in affected joints, often starting with the big toe. Gout occurs when the body either produces too much uric acid or cannot effectively eliminate it through the kidneys, leading to hyperuricemia (high uric acid levels). Lifestyle factors such as diet and obesity, as well as certain medical conditions, can exacerbate the risk of developing gout. In contrast, while other conditions might lead to complications affecting uric acid levels, they are not directly associated with the increased prevalence of gout. For example, rectal cancer, liver disease, and prostatic cancer do not have a direct relationship with elevated uric acid in the same primary way as gout does. Instead, these conditions may involve other metabolic processes and do not typically present with the same hallmark symptoms or direct biochemical consequences related to uric acid.