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Creat72hurmrate

Published: July 31, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of creatinine in your urine collected over 72 hours to assess kidney function and help diagnose kidney disorders.

Quick summary

{"Collects all urine for 3 days to measure creatinine levels","Helps evaluate how well your kidneys are filtering waste","Results are used to check kidney function or as a reference for other urine tests","Avoid strenuous exercise before and during collection","Keep urine samples refrigerated or on ice"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
16690-0
Short code
CR72U
Synonyms
Creat 72h Ur-mRate
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Clean plastic or glass urine collection container, preservative-free for routine creatinine
Units
not specified
Ref low
600
Ref high
2000
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Enzymatic or Jaffe kinetic colorimetric assay
CPT
82570
SNOMED
271254006
Specimen volume
Complete 72-hour urine collection volume (typically 1500-3000 mL depending on urine output)
Stability
Room temperature: 24 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 7 days; Frozen (-20°C): 30 days
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 72-hour urine creatinine test measures how much creatinine your kidneys filter out through your urine over a three-day period. Creatinine is a waste product that comes from the normal breakdown of muscle activity. Healthy kidneys filter creatinine from the blood and eliminate it in urine. This test helps doctors understand how well your kidneys are working and provides important reference values for other urine tests.

During this test, you will collect all your urine in a special container provided by your healthcare provider for 72 hours. It is important to collect every drop during this period, including the first morning urine on the first day and the final morning urine on the third day. The container should be kept refrigerated or stored on ice to preserve the sample.

Your healthcare provider will give you specific instructions on how to collect, store, and return the samples. Follow these instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

Reference range

Male: 3.0-6.0 g/72 hr; Female: 2.4-5.4 g/72 hrnot specified

Specimen: urine

Complete 72-hour urine collection required (discard first void, collect all subsequent urine including final void at 72 hours); refrigerate specimen during collection; no fasting or special diet needed

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings3

Frequently asked questions

Why do I need to collect urine for 72 hours?
A 72-hour collection provides a more accurate measurement than a single urine sample because creatinine levels can vary throughout the day due to diet, activity levels, and other factors. The extended collection period gives a comprehensive picture of your kidney function.
Does this test require any special preparation?
Your doctor may ask you to avoid certain foods (like large amounts of meat), supplements, or medications that might affect test results. You should also avoid strenuous exercise during the collection period, as intense physical activity can increase creatinine levels. Stay well-hydrated unless otherwise instructed.
What happens if I miss a urine sample during the collection period?
It is crucial to collect every urine sample during the 72-hour period for accurate results. If you miss a collection, contact your healthcare provider immediately for guidance. They may need to restart the collection process.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
There are no significant health risks from this test. The main challenge is the inconvenience of collecting all urine samples over three days and ensuring proper storage.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days after the collection is complete. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you and explain what they mean for your health.
  1. 1
    Creatinine (Urine) - Mayo Clinic LaboratoriesSource
  2. 2
    Urinary Creatinine - MedlinePlusSource
  3. 3
    Kidney Function Tests - National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney DiseasesSource

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