Ammoniaurmcnc
A urine test that measures the amount of ammonia, a waste product, in your urine to help evaluate liver and kidney function.
{"Measures ammonia levels in urine to assess liver function","Helps diagnose liver disease, metabolic disorders, and kidney problems","A simple urine sample is all that's needed for this test","Results help doctors understand how well your body processes and eliminates waste"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 20682-1
- Short code
- Ammonia Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Ammonia Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Critical range
- — – 200 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The urine ammonia test measures the amount of ammonia in your urine. Ammonia is a waste product that comes from the breakdown of proteins in your body. Normally, your liver converts ammonia into urea, which is then filtered by your kidneys and excreted in urine. This test helps doctors see how well your body is processing and eliminating this waste.
Why do I need this test?
Your doctor may order a urine ammonia test if they suspect you have a liver disorder, kidney disease, or certain metabolic conditions. It helps evaluate how well your liver is functioning, particularly its ability to process ammonia. The test may also be used to monitor conditions that cause abnormal ammonia levels in the body.
How is the test done?
This is a simple urine test. You will be asked to provide a urine sample in a sterile container. No fasting or special preparation is typically required. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Understanding your results
Ammonia levels in urine can vary depending on your diet, hydration, and overall health. Your doctor will interpret your results based on your individual health situation. Elevated or decreased levels may indicate an underlying condition that needs further evaluation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Do I need to fast before this test?
Is the test painful?
How long does it take to get results?
What can affect my urine ammonia levels?
Will I need other tests?
Sources
- 1MedlinePlus - AmmoniaSource
- 2
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy