What disease state is associated with an elevation of serum uric acid?

The disease state associated with an elevation of serum uric acid is gout. Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis characterized by the accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to intense pain, swelling, and redness. This condition arises when the body produces too much uric acid or does not eliminate enough of it through the kidneys.

When uric acid levels in the bloodstream increase beyond normal levels, it can precipitate into crystals, particularly in the joints, which can trigger acute inflammatory responses. The presence of elevated serum uric acid is a crucial marker for diagnosing gout and managing flares of this condition.

The other conditions listed do not primarily involve elevated serum uric acid as a central pathology. Atherosclerosis, Reye's syndrome, and diabetes may have other metabolic derangements, but they do not have a direct correlation with elevated uric acid levels in the same way that gout does. Therefore, the association of elevated serum uric acid specifically points to gout as the correct answer.