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Lead (Blood) Screening Panel with 24-Hour Urine Collection

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

This test measures blood and urine levels of lead, a heavy metal that can harm your body over time, especially in children. Lead exposure may come from contaminated food, water, or dust.

Quick summary

["Lead exposure can cause serious health risks, particularly in children and pregnant individuals."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
96072-4
Short code
HEDIS MY 2020 Lead Tests
Synonyms
HEDIS MY 2020 Lead Tests
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like headaches, fatigue, or behavioral changes, or if you live in an area with known lead contamination. Children with developmental delays or exposure to lead sources may also be tested. Pregnant individuals or those with high-risk occupations (e.g., construction, battery recycling) may also need this screening.

Blood Lead Test

This part of the test measures the amount of lead in your blood. High levels can indicate recent exposure or ongoing absorption. Blood lead levels are typically measured in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL).

24-Hour Urine Lead Test

This test measures lead in your urine over a 24-hour period. Urine lead levels can show how much lead your body is excreting, which helps assess long-term exposure. This test requires collecting all urine over a full day.

What to Expect Before the Test

For the blood test, you’ll have a small needle inserted into your arm to draw blood. For the urine test, you’ll collect all urine for a full day in a special container. Follow any instructions your provider gives you to prepare, such as avoiding certain medications or foods.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lead Test Panel

Frequently asked questions

How long does it take to get results?
Results from this test are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on your lab and healthcare provider. Follow-up may be needed if levels are elevated.
What does a high lead level mean?
A high lead level in either blood or urine suggests recent or ongoing exposure. Your provider will discuss next steps, such as reducing exposure, treatment options, or further testing.
Can lead levels be lowered?
Yes, lead levels can often be reduced with changes in diet, avoiding lead-containing products, and medical treatments if needed. Treatment may include chelation therapy in severe cases.
  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