What does the presence of elevated uric acid levels in infants typically indicate?

Elevated uric acid levels in infants can indeed indicate kidney dysfunction. The kidneys are responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, including uric acid, which is a byproduct of purine metabolism. When the kidneys are not functioning properly, they may not be able to excrete uric acid efficiently, leading to increased levels in the bloodstream.

Monitoring uric acid levels can help in assessing kidney health, especially in infants who may have underlying congenital conditions or other health issues that affect renal function. While other factors such as dehydration, acid-base imbalances, or liver failure may influence uric acid levels in some contexts, kidney dysfunction is a primary and more direct cause of sustained hyperuricemia in infants.