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: Chromium [Mass/time] in 24 hour Urine

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

: This test measures the amount of chromium excreted in urine collected over 24 hours, which can help assess recent exposure to chromium.

Quick summary

[": A 24-hour urine chromium test estimates how much chromium your body has cleared in a full day, mainly reflecting recent exposure."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
81023-4
Short code
Chromium intake 24h Est
Synonyms
Chromium intake 24h Est
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
20
Ref high
400
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
estimated
CPT
82670
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

: What Is Chromium?

: Chromium is a trace element found in air, water, soil, and some foods and industrial materials. Small amounts are needed for normal metabolism, but higher exposures—especially to certain forms such as hexavalent chromium—can be harmful.

: Why Collect Urine for 24 Hours?

: Chromium leaves the body mainly through the urine, but levels rise and fall during the day. Collecting all urine for a full 24 hours gives a more complete picture than a single sample.

: How the Test Is Done

: You will be given a container and instructions to collect every urine void over a 24-hour period, usually starting after discarding the first morning sample. Keep the container cool and return it as directed.

: What the Results Can Mean

: Results are interpreted alongside your job, diet, symptoms, and other tests. A higher level may suggest greater recent exposure, while a lower level generally suggests less exposure; results do not by themselves diagnose a disease.

Reference range

Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

: 24-Hour Urine Chromium

Frequently asked questions

: Do I need to fast or change my diet?
: Usually no special fasting is required, but follow your lab's instructions. Avoid chromium-containing supplements unless your clinician says otherwise, and report any workplace exposure.
: What happens if I miss some urine during collection?
: A missed sample can make the 24-hour result unreliable. Tell the laboratory or your clinician if collection was incomplete, since the test may need to be repeated.
: Can this test tell me if chromium is harming my health?
: Not by itself. It estimates recent exposure, but health effects are assessed with your history, physical exam, workplace information, and other tests ordered by your clinician.
  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