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Chromium in Urine (24-hour collection)

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

This test measures the amount of chromium, a trace mineral, excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. Chromium helps regulate blood sugar and may play a role in metabolism.

Quick summary

["Chromium urine tests help assess how well your body absorbs and uses this mineral, especially in conditions affecting metabolism or kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
53780-3
Short code
Chromium Pnl Ur
Synonyms
Chromium Pnl Ur
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order a 24-hour chromium urine test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to chromium deficiency or metabolism issues, such as diabetes, kidney disease, or unexplained weight changes. It may also be used to monitor treatment responses in certain chronic conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting after midnight on one day and ending just before midnight the next. Drink plenty of fluids to ensure full collection. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to avoid missing samples.

During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond the 24-hour urine collection. Your sample will be sent to a lab for analysis, where chromium levels are measured in your urine.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as the total chromium excreted over 24 hours. Abnormal results may indicate chromium deficiency, kidney issues, or metabolic disorders that require further evaluation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Chromium Urine

Frequently asked questions

What causes chromium levels in urine to be low?
Low chromium levels in urine may be due to poor dietary intake, malabsorption issues (such as celiac disease or gastrointestinal disorders), kidney problems, or certain medications that interfere with chromium absorption.
What does it mean if my chromium urine test is abnormal?
An abnormal result doesn’t always mean a serious condition. Your provider will discuss the findings with you and may recommend further tests, such as blood chromium levels or dietary evaluations, to determine the cause and next steps.
Can chromium urine tests be affected by diet?
Yes, dietary chromium intake can influence results. Avoid consuming high-chromium foods (like nuts, whole grains, or supplements) for a few days before testing to get an accurate baseline measurement.
  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