Skip to content

Galactose in Serum (24-Hour Urinary Collection)

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

This test measures the amount of galactose, a sugar, in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps detect galactosemia, a rare genetic disorder that affects how your body processes galactose.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose galactosemia, a condition that requires early treatment to prevent serious health problems."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
24096-0
Short code
GALNS WBC-cCnt
Synonyms
GALNS WBC-cCnt
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Ref low
4.5
Ref high
11
Critical range
2 N/A – 30 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
85004
SNOMED
900000000000003002
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 This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like vomiting, poor weight gain, or jaundice in infants, or if you have a family history of galactosemia. It’s also used to monitor galactose levels in people with known galactosemia.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting after midnight on one day and ending midnight the next. Store the urine in a refrigerator and bring the entire sample to the lab. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What Happens During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond the 24-hour urine collection. The lab analyzes the sample for galactose levels using a specialized method.

Possible Results and Their Meaning

High levels of galactose in urine may indicate galactosemia or other metabolic issues. Low or normal levels do not necessarily rule out the condition, as other factors can influence results. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Reference range

Adult: 4.5-11.0 x 10^9/LN/A

Specimen: serum

No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Galactose Urine Test

Frequently asked questions

What are the normal ranges for this test?
Normal ranges can vary by lab and may not be provided here. Your doctor will discuss the results with you and compare them to your specific health needs. High urinary galactose levels often trigger further testing or dietary adjustments.
Can I eat or drink anything before the urine collection?
Yes, you can eat and drink normally during the 24-hour collection period. Avoid any special diets unless instructed by your doctor.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab’s processing time. Your doctor will contact you once the results are ready.
  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