Skip to content

Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with 24-Hour Urine Collection for Total Creatinine

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

This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months and checks kidney function through urine creatinine. It helps assess long-term diabetes control and kidney health together.

Quick summary

["This combined test helps track diabetes management and kidney function in one evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77474-5
Short code
Deprecated Hind+Mid ft-Bl XR Harris
Synonyms
Deprecated Hind+Mid ft-Bl XR Harris
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr
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 HbA1c Measures

HbA1c reflects the percentage of hemoglobin molecules coated with sugar (glycated hemoglobin) from your red blood cells over time. It’s a key indicator of how well your blood sugar has been controlled during this period.

Why Urine Creatinine is Included

Urine creatinine helps assess kidney function by measuring waste product excretion. Together with HbA1c, it provides a fuller picture of your metabolic and renal health.

How the Test Works

Your blood is drawn to measure HbA1c, while a 24-hour urine sample collects all creatinine waste. Results are analyzed to compare blood sugar trends and kidney processing efficiency.

Common Reasons for This Test

Doctors order this test if you have diabetes to monitor long-term control, or if you have kidney concerns to evaluate metabolic and renal risks simultaneously.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HbA1c + 24-Hour Urine Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

How often should I expect this test?
Typically, HbA1c is checked every 3–6 months for diabetes management. Urine creatinine may be included periodically if kidney function is being monitored, but timing varies by doctor’s protocol.
What do abnormal results mean?
High HbA1c suggests poor blood sugar control, while elevated urine creatinine may indicate kidney strain. Together, they can signal both metabolic and renal issues requiring adjustments to treatment.
Can I prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed for the blood draw, but follow your doctor’s instructions for the 24-hour urine collection (e.g., timing, sample storage). Drink fluids as usual unless advised otherwise.
  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