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Calciumurmcnc

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A urine test that measures the amount of calcium in your urine to evaluate kidney function and calcium metabolism.

Quick summary

{"Measures calcium levels in urine to assess kidney function and calcium balance","Helps diagnose kidney stones, bone diseases, and parathyroid disorders","Collected as a 24-hour urine sample or spot urine sample","Results are interpreted along with blood calcium tests","Abnormal levels may indicate kidney problems or metabolic disorders"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
17862-4
Short code
Urine Ca
Synonyms
Calcium Ur-mCnc
Category
electrolyte
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container (plastic or glass) for random collection; large container with preservative for 24-hour collection
Units
not specified
Ref low
5
Ref high
40
Critical range
6 not specified – 14 not specified
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 18 years
Method
Colorimetric assay (o-cresolphthalein complexone method) or atomic absorption spectrometry on automated chemistry analyzer
CPT
82340
SNOMED
271565004
Specimen volume
10-50 mL for random urine; complete 24-hour collection (typically 1000-2000 mL depending on urine output)
Stability
Room temperature: 24-48 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days. Refrigeration recommended for 24-hour collections.
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

A Urine Calcium Test measures the amount of calcium present in your urine. Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in bone health, muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. This test helps healthcare providers evaluate how well your kidneys are handling calcium and whether your body is maintaining proper calcium balance.

The test is typically performed on a urine sample collected over 24 hours (24-hour urine collection) or sometimes as a single urine sample (spot urine). The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory to determine the concentration of calcium.

Reference range

5-40 mg/dLnot specified

Specimen: urine

No fasting or special preparation required; random urine specimen

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

The Urine Calcium Test is clinically significant for several reasons. Elevated urine calcium (hypercalciuria) may indicate kidney stones, hyperparathyroidism, certain bone diseases, or excessive vitamin D intake. Low urine calcium (hypocalciuria) may suggest hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, or kidney problems that cause excessive calcium retention. This test is often ordered alongside blood calcium tests and other electrolyte panels to provide a comprehensive assessment of calcium metabolism.

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need a urine calcium test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of kidney stones (such as severe back or abdominal pain, blood in urine), signs of parathyroid disorders, bone diseases, or to monitor your kidney function. It helps determine if your kidneys are excreting or retaining too much calcium.
How do I collect a 24-hour urine sample?
For a 24-hour urine collection, you will be given a special container. On the first day, you will urinate into the container when you wake up, then collect all urine for the next 24 hours (including the first morning urine on the second day). Keep the container refrigerated or in a cool place. Follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions carefully.
Are there any risks to this test?
There are no significant risks to the urine calcium test itself. The test simply requires providing a urine sample. However, if you are collecting a 24-hour sample, be sure to follow proper hygiene and storage instructions to ensure accurate results.
What do abnormal results mean?
High urine calcium levels may be associated with kidney stones, hyperparathyroidism, certain cancers, sarcoidosis, or excessive calcium/vitamin D supplementation. Low levels may indicate hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, or kidney disease. Your doctor will interpret your results in context with other tests and your overall health condition.
Do I need to fast before this test?
Typically, no fasting is required for a urine calcium test. However, your doctor may instruct you to avoid certain foods or supplements before the test. Follow your healthcare provider's specific instructions.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Calcium in UrineSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - Urine TestSource
  3. 3
    National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)Source

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