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Calciumurscnc

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

A test that measures the amount of calcium in your urine to evaluate calcium metabolism and diagnose related conditions.

Quick summary

{"Measures calcium levels in urine to assess how your body processes calcium","Helps diagnose kidney stones, bone disorders, and parathyroid problems","Requires a 24-hour urine collection for accurate results","Results are interpreted alongside blood calcium tests","Abnormal results may indicate kidney or metabolic issues"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2004-0
Short code
CaU
Synonyms
Calcium Ur-sCnc
Category
electrolyte
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container (24-hour collection container with preservative if needed)
Units
not specified
Ref low
0.5
Ref high
5
Critical range
6 not specified – 14 not specified
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) or Colorimetric (Arsenazo III) method
CPT
82310
SNOMED
271449001
Specimen volume
10-50 mL for spot urine; complete 24-hour collection for timed specimens
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated: 7 days; Frozen: 30 days
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The urine calcium test measures the amount of calcium excreted in your urine over a specific period, typically 24 hours. Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in bone health, muscle function, nerve transmission, and blood clotting. This test helps doctors understand how well your body is absorbing, using, and eliminating calcium.

Why do I need this test?

Your doctor may order a urine calcium test if you have symptoms or conditions such as kidney stones, bone pain, weakness, or abnormal blood calcium levels. It is also used to monitor patients with parathyroid disorders, certain kidney diseases, or those taking medications that affect calcium metabolism. The test helps determine if your kidneys are excreting too much or too little calcium.

How to prepare for the test?

Before the test, inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, including supplements, as some medications can affect calcium levels. You may be asked to avoid certain foods or activities for a short period before the collection. Your doctor will provide specific instructions, which typically include collecting all urine produced over 24 hours in a provided container.

What happens during the test?

For a 24-hour urine collection, you will receive a special container from the laboratory. On the starting day, urinate into the container when you wake up, then collect all urine for the next 24 hours. Keep the container refrigerated or in a cool place. Return the complete collection to the laboratory as instructed. The sample is then analyzed to measure the total amount of calcium excreted.

Understanding your results

Normal urine calcium levels vary depending on dietary intake and kidney function. High urine calcium (hypercalciuria) may indicate kidney stones, hyperparathyroidism, or excessive vitamin D intake. Low urine calcium (hypocalciuria) may suggest vitamin D deficiency, kidney disease, or hypoparathyroidism. Your doctor will interpret your results in context with other tests and your overall health condition.

Reference range

0.5-5.0 mmol/Lnot specified

Specimen: urine

No fasting or special prep for random urine; midstream clean-catch preferred; avoid calcium supplements if assessing excretion

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Frequently asked questions

Is the 24-hour collection uncomfortable?
The collection process is not painful or uncomfortable. You simply urinate into a special container instead of the toilet. The main challenge is remembering to collect every sample and keeping the container refrigerated. Most people adapt to this routine easily within a few hours.
Can I eat normally during the collection period?
Yes, you should maintain your normal diet and activity level during the 24-hour collection period. This provides accurate results that reflect your everyday calcium metabolism. However, follow any specific dietary instructions your doctor may have given you.
What if I forget to collect a urine sample during the 24 hours?
If you miss a sample, inform the laboratory when you return the container. The test may need to be repeated to ensure accurate results. Do not try to compensate by adding extra urine from a different time or diluting the sample.
Are there any risks to this test?
There are no significant risks to this test. It is a simple urine collection procedure. The main consideration is ensuring proper sample collection and storage to maintain accuracy.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1-3 days after completing the collection. Your doctor will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Urine Calcium LevelSource
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic - HypercalciuriaSource
  3. 3
    Lab Tests Online - Urine CalciumSource

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