What condition results in increased uric acid levels?

What condition results in increased uric acid levels?

• A. Acute renal failure
• B. Metabolic alkalosis
• C. Diabetes mellitus
• D. Cerebrovascular accident

Answer: (A)

The condition associated with increased uric acid levels is acute renal failure. In this situation, the kidneys become impaired and are unable to effectively filter waste products from the blood, including uric acid. As a result, uric acid accumulates in the bloodstream, leading to hyperuricemia.

When the kidneys fail, their ability to excrete uric acid diminishes significantly. This condition can be due to a variety of factors, including acute kidney injury, dehydration, or conditions that impair blood flow to the kidneys. The accumulation of uric acid can ultimately lead to gout, a form of arthritis characterized by severe pain, redness, and inflammation in the joints.

In contrast, metabolic alkalosis typically involves the depletion of hydrogen ions or an increase in bicarbonate, without a direct effect on uric acid levels. Diabetes mellitus primarily affects glucose metabolism and does not directly cause an increase in uric acid. A cerebrovascular accident, or stroke, can have many secondary effects but is not directly linked to elevated uric acid levels as a primary issue.