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24-Hour Urine Cadmium Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the total amount of cadmium, a heavy metal, collected in your urine over a 24-hour period. Cadmium exposure can occur from environmental sources or certain foods.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess long-term cadmium exposure and potential kidney or other organ damage."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
21130-0
Short code
UCD24
Synonyms
Cadmium 24h Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Cadmium-free, trace-metal-free polyethylene or polypropylene 24-hour urine collection container
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
1
Critical range
— – 5 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS)
CPT
82300
SNOMED
44329006
Specimen volume
Entire 24-hour urine collection; minimum 10 mL aliquot required for testing
Stability
Ambient: 7 days; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 30 days; Frozen (-20°C): 1 year. Acidify to pH <2 with ultrapure nitric acid for extended storage.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of heavy metal poisoning, such as nausea, vomiting, or kidney problems, or if you work in an environment with high cadmium exposure (e.g., mining, manufacturing). They may also recommend it for people with chronic kidney disease or those with a history of cadmium poisoning.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting after you wake up in the morning. Store the urine in a clean container and keep it refrigerated. Bring the entire sample to your lab appointment.

How the Test Is Done

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine over 24 hours. The lab analyzes the sample using advanced techniques to measure cadmium levels.

What the Results Mean

Higher than expected levels may indicate exposure to cadmium, which can damage organs over time. Very high levels could suggest acute poisoning. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your health and symptoms.

Reference range

Non-exposed adults: <1.0 µg/g creatinine (or <1.0 µg/24h). Occupational exposure monitoring thresholds apply per regulatory guidelines.N/A

Specimen: urine

No fasting required. Patients should avoid cadmium-contaminated foods (shellfish, organ meats, leafy greens from contaminated soils) for 48 hours prior to collection. Strict handwashing and use of cadmium-free collection containers essential to prevent contamination. Avoid smoking for 24 hours prior to collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Cadmium is a toxic metal that can accumulate in the body over time, particularly affecting the kidneys, bones, and lungs. Chronic exposure may lead to long-term health issues, including kidney disease, bone loss, and increased cancer risk. This test helps monitor exposure and assess potential health risks.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Cadmium

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated cadmium levels?
Elevated cadmium levels can result from occupational exposure (e.g., mining, welding), smoking, or consuming contaminated foods (e.g., shellfish, certain grains). Chronic kidney disease or genetic factors may also play a role.
How long does it take to get results?
Results typically take 1–2 weeks to be processed and reported by your healthcare provider.
Can I drink water during the 24-hour urine collection?
Yes, you can drink water, but avoid excessive fluids that might dilute the sample. Drink enough to stay hydrated but follow your provider’s specific instructions.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy