Homocysteine 24-hour urinary excretion rate
This test measures how much homocysteine, a chemical produced by the body, appears in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess your risk for certain health conditions linked to high homocysteine levels.
["This test helps identify elevated homocysteine, which may signal increased risk for heart disease or other health issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 32690-0
- Short code
- Hcys 24h Ur-sRate
- Synonyms
- Hcys 24h Ur-sRate
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms or risk factors for conditions like heart disease, vascular problems, or certain genetic disorders. It may also be used to monitor treatment effectiveness for conditions affecting homocysteine metabolism.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll collect your urine over a full 24-hour period, starting after you urinate in the morning. Store the urine in a refrigerator until you return it to the lab. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully.
What the Test Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a rate (e.g., micromoles per 24 hours). High levels may indicate an increased risk for vascular issues or other health concerns. Your provider will discuss results with you and may recommend further testing or lifestyle changes.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
Elevated homocysteine levels can be caused by genetic factors, certain medications (like folic acid or vitamin B supplements), kidney disease, or conditions affecting metabolism. Low levels may occur with vitamin deficiencies or certain genetic disorders.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Homocysteine Urine Rate
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my results are high?
Can I lower my homocysteine levels naturally?
Why would my provider check this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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