What condition can occur due to excessive levels of uric acid in the bloodstream?

Excessive levels of uric acid in the bloodstream can lead to gout, which is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by sudden and severe pain, redness, and swelling in the joints. Uric acid is a byproduct of purine metabolism and is normally filtered out by the kidneys. When the body produces too much uric acid or fails to excrete enough of it, the uric acid can crystallize in the joints, leading to the painful symptoms of gout.

Gout is particularly associated with elevated uric acid levels in the blood, known as hyperuricemia. These high levels can result from various factors such as diet, genetics, or kidney function. The most commonly affected joint is the big toe, but gout can affect other joints as well. Treatment often involves medications to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as lifestyle changes to manage uric acid levels.

While other conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and kidney stones may have some connection to uric acid, gout is the most directly related condition caused specifically by excessive uric acid in the bloodstream.