What is the purpose of this test?
The Calcium with Creatinine Urine Test, 24-Hour, measures the amount of calcium and creatinine in a person’s urine over a full 24-hour period. It helps doctors assess how well the kidneys are functioning and how efficiently the body processes calcium. High or low levels of calcium in urine can be indicative of issues like kidney stones, bone disorders, or imbalances in calcium metabolism. By comparing calcium levels to creatinine levels, the test helps normalize the results for hydration status, offering a more accurate reflection of kidney and bone health.
This test is important for detecting conditions such as hypercalciuria (excessive calcium in the urine), which may be a risk factor for kidney stones, or hypocalciuria (low calcium in the urine), which could indicate bone disease or vitamin D deficiency. Monitoring calcium with creatinine ratios helps healthcare providers identify metabolic issues, bone diseases like osteoporosis, or kidney function problems. This test is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring chronic kidney disease and assessing kidney function during treatment.
Who should get this test?
- Individuals with a history of kidney stones or at risk for them.
- People with a family history of bone diseases like osteoporosis.
- Those experiencing unexplained bone pain or fractures.
- Individuals with kidney disease or other chronic conditions affecting kidney function.
- People with abnormal levels of calcium in their blood,suggesting possible calcium metabolism issues.
- Individuals undergoing treatment for conditions affecting bone or kidney health, like vitamin D deficiency or hyperparathyroidism.
- Those with symptoms of kidney dysfunction, such as swelling in the legs, fatigue, or changes in urination.
When should I order the Calcium with Creatinine Urine Test, 24-Hour?
Individuals may consider ordering this test if they have symptoms or exposure concerns related to kidney or bone health. Symptoms to consider:
- Chronic or severe bone pain.
- Frequent kidney stones or a history of them.
- Changes in urination, including frequency or discomfort.
- Swelling in the legs or other body parts.
- Unexplained muscle weakness or fatigue.
- Difficulty in bone healing after a fracture.
If you experience any of these symptoms or are concerned about calcium metabolism, the Calcium with Creatinine Urine Test, 24-Hour can help your doctor assess your kidney and bone health.
Sample ReportTest Code(s):
003324, 1635
Preparation:You must take your lab order to the lab to obtain a proper specimen container before collection. Medications affecting mineral metabolism should be withdrawn, if possible, two to four weeks prior to and during collection. Check with physician before stopping any medications. Urinate at 8am and discard the specimen. Then collect all urine in 24-hour period, ending with final collection at 8am the next morning. Refrigerate the collected urine between all voidings or keep it in a cool place. Screw the lid on securely. Transport the specimen promptly to the laboratory. Container must be labeled with full name, date and time collection started, and date and time collection finished.
Test Results:
2-4 Business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
