Cholesterol, Urine — Mass Concentration
Measures the amount of cholesterol in urine. This test is not routine and is usually ordered to evaluate cholesterol excretion or certain kidney and metabolic conditions.
["Urine cholesterol measures cholesterol loss in the urine and is interpreted alongside kidney function, protein levels, and blood cholesterol results."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14444-4
- Short code
- Cholest Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cholest Ur-mCnc
- Category
- lipid
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- 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?
This test measures the concentration of cholesterol in a urine sample. Urine cholesterol testing may be used in the evaluation of selected kidney disorders, disorders of cholesterol metabolism, or other situations in which a clinician needs to assess urinary cholesterol loss.
Why might I need this test?
Urine cholesterol may be ordered when symptoms or laboratory findings suggest a condition affecting the kidneys or cholesterol handling. It is generally used as a specialized test rather than part of routine cholesterol screening, which is performed with a blood test.
How is the test performed?
A urine sample is collected according to the laboratory's instructions. The laboratory measures cholesterol in the urine and usually reports the concentration relative to the urine volume, sometimes with the collection time and other details noted.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the specific collection instructions provided by your clinician or laboratory. Depending on the test, a first-morning, timed, or complete urine collection may be required; fasting is usually not necessary unless your clinician gives different instructions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Increased urinary cholesterol loss may occur with some kidney disorders, particularly conditions in which large amounts of protein enter the urine. Results can also vary with urine concentration, collection timing, diet, and other factors, so they should be interpreted with blood cholesterol, urine protein, and kidney function results. An unexpected result does not by itself establish a diagnosis.
Short name
Urine cholesterol
Frequently asked questions
Is urine cholesterol the same as a routine blood cholesterol test?
Why might my clinician order a timed urine collection?
Does an abnormal result mean I have high cholesterol?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy