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

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

This test measures your average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months and assesses kidney function through a urine sample. It helps track diabetes management and kidney health together.

Quick summary

["This combined test helps doctors monitor both diabetes control and kidney function in one evaluation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
11947-9
Short code
HC/AC der US
Synonyms
HC/AC der US
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-derived
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 Matters for Diabetes Management

HbA1c measures how well your blood sugar has been controlled over time by tracking the percentage of hemoglobin (a protein in red blood cells) that is coated with sugar. Higher levels suggest poorer control, which can increase diabetes-related risks.

How Kidney Function Is Assessed

The urine sample helps estimate kidney function by measuring creatinine clearance, a way to gauge how well your kidneys filter waste. This is important because diabetes can damage kidneys over time.

What to Expect Before the Test

For HbA1c: No special preparation is needed, but fasting is not required. For creatinine clearance: You’ll provide a 24-hour urine sample, so collect all urine for 24 hours (starting after your first morning pee).

What the Results Mean

HbA1c results alone guide diabetes treatment, while creatinine clearance helps assess kidney health. Together, they provide a fuller picture of your metabolic and renal status.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

HbA1c + eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Profile

Frequently asked questions

What does an abnormal HbA1c result mean?
An elevated HbA1c suggests your blood sugar levels have been consistently higher than recommended, which may require adjustments to your diabetes treatment plan.
How does kidney function affect diabetes management?
Kidney function impacts how well your body removes waste and regulates blood sugar. If kidneys are impaired, your doctor may need to adjust medications or monitor you more closely.
Why is a 24-hour urine sample needed for creatinine clearance?
This method provides a more accurate estimate of kidney function by measuring how much creatinine your body filters over a full day, accounting for daily variations in urine output.
  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