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Cobalt/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures cobalt relative to creatinine, helping assess recent cobalt exposure while accounting for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test can help evaluate recent cobalt exposure, but results must be interpreted with your medical and occupational history."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
34270-9
Short code
Cobalt/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Cobalt/Creat Ur-sRto
Category
liver
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
7
Ref high
56
Critical range
— – 500 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
84484
SNOMED
302773008
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 amount of cobalt in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used to help account for how concentrated or dilute the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used for workplace or environmental monitoring when there is a possibility of exposure to cobalt. It may also be considered when symptoms suggest exposure to a metal-containing substance or product.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed for cobalt and creatinine. The laboratory then compares the two measurements to calculate the cobalt-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician or workplace, including whether a first-morning, spot, or timed urine sample is required. Tell the care team about any cobalt-containing supplements, medicines, occupation, hobbies, or recent metal exposure.

Reference range

Adult males: 7-56 U/L; Adult females: 7-43 U/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine cobalt-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test show how much cobalt I have in my body?
It estimates recent cobalt exposure by measuring cobalt in urine. It does not provide a complete measure of cobalt stored in the body.
Why is the result divided by creatinine?
Urine can be more or less concentrated from one sample to another. Comparing cobalt with creatinine helps reduce the effect of urine dilution.
Can supplements or workplace contact affect the result?
Yes. Cobalt-containing products, occupational materials, and other environmental sources can affect urine levels, so the care team should know about them when interpreting the result.
  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