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Creatinine Clearance (from 24-hour urine collection)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood by tracking creatinine levels in your urine over 24 hours.

Quick summary

["Assesses kidney function by evaluating urine flow and waste removal efficiency."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2156-8
Short code
CK Amn-cCnc
Synonyms
CK Amn-cCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
fluid
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
22
Ref high
198
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82553
Specimen volume
2-5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
Hemolysis max
300
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect kidney disease, monitor kidney function over time, or check how well medications are being cleared from your body. It helps determine if your kidneys are working properly to remove waste and excess fluids.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period (typically from one morning to the next morning). Drink plenty of fluids but avoid excessive caffeine or diuretics. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What Happens During the Test

No special procedure is needed—you simply collect your urine in a container over the 24-hour period. Afterward, the sample is sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are usually reported as a rate (e.g., milliliters per minute or milliliters per hour). Lower than expected values may indicate kidney problems, while higher values could suggest dehydration or other conditions.

Reference range

Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A

Specimen: fluid

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-hour urine creatinine clearance

Frequently asked questions

How long does the 24-hour urine collection take?
The collection period itself is 24 hours, but you may need to prepare for it by coordinating with your doctor or lab staff to ensure proper timing and accuracy.
Can I take medications during urine collection?
Yes, but avoid excessive diuretics or caffeine, as they can affect urine volume and clarity. Always follow your doctor’s specific instructions for medication timing.
What if I miss any urine during the collection?
Missing urine can skew results. If this happens, inform your lab or doctor immediately so they can adjust the analysis or retest if needed.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy