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Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with 24-hour urine collection for total creatinine clearance

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

This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months and evaluates how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood using a 24-hour urine sample.

Quick summary

["Helps track diabetes management and kidney function together."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77493-5
Short code
Deprecated Hind+Mid ft-L XR stand
Synonyms
Deprecated Hind+Mid ft-L XR stand
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

Why HbA1c Matters in Diabetes Care

HbA1c reflects your blood sugar control over time, showing how well your diabetes treatment has worked. It’s a key tool for doctors to adjust medications and prevent long-term complications like nerve damage or heart disease.

How Creatinine Clearance Works

Creatinine clearance measures how efficiently your kidneys remove waste from blood. A 24-hour urine test collects all waste passed over that period to calculate this value, helping assess kidney health and function.

When This Test Is Ordered

Your doctor may order this test if you have diabetes and want to monitor both blood sugar control and kidney function simultaneously. It’s also used in kidney disease evaluation or before starting medications that affect kidney function.

What to Expect Before the Test

For the creatinine clearance part, you’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours in a special container. Drink enough fluids to urinate every few hours but avoid excessive water intake. Your doctor will provide clear instructions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HbA1c + Creatinine Clearance (24h urine)

Frequently asked questions

Why is this test important for people with diabetes?
This test helps doctors assess whether your diabetes treatment is keeping your blood sugar levels stable while also protecting your kidneys. High HbA1c levels indicate poor control, and abnormal creatinine clearance may signal kidney strain, both of which require prompt attention.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your diabetes management plan and kidney health. Typically, HbA1c is checked every 3–6 months, and creatinine clearance may be reviewed if you have kidney concerns or changes in medications.
Can I eat or drink anything special before this test?
For the HbA1c part, no special diet is needed. For creatinine clearance, avoid high-protein foods or supplements that may affect urine waste levels. Follow your doctor’s instructions for the 24-hour urine collection period.
  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