Urate

Urate is a salt or ester of uric acid, a compound that is produced by the body's metabolic processes and excreted in urine. Urate is formed from the breakdown of purines, which are nitrogen-containing compounds found in the cells of the body and in certain foods. High levels of urate in the blood can lead to the development of gout, a painful form of arthritis.

Formation and Excretion

Urate is formed in the liver as a byproduct of the breakdown of purines. It is then transported in the bloodstream to the kidneys, where it is filtered out of the blood and excreted in urine. A small amount of urate is also excreted in the feces.

Hyperuricemia

Hyperuricemia is a condition characterized by high levels of urate in the blood. This can occur as a result of increased production of urate, decreased excretion of urate, or a combination of both. Hyperuricemia can lead to the formation of urate crystals in the joints and tissues, causing inflammation and pain. This is the basis of gout.

Gout

Gout is a form of arthritis that occurs when urate crystals accumulate in the joints, causing inflammation and intense pain. The most common joint affected is the big toe, but gout can affect any joint in the body. Gout attacks can be triggered by certain foods, alcohol, stress, or medications.

Treatment

Treatment for high urate levels and gout typically involves lifestyle changes and medications. Lifestyle changes may include a diet low in purines, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. Medications may be used to lower urate levels in the blood or to relieve the symptoms of gout.

See Also

• Uric acid
• Purine
• Gout
• Hyperuricemia

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