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24-Hour Urine Creatinine Clearance (or Dialysis Discontinuation Monitoring)

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

This test measures how well your kidneys filter waste from your blood after you stopped dialysis. It helps doctors check if your kidneys are working enough to keep you healthy without dialysis.

Quick summary

Assesses kidney function post-dialysis discontinuation to ensure adequate waste removal.

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
64345-2
Short code
HOMEPATIENTSWHODISCONTINUEDDIALYSIS
Synonyms
—
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 Matters for You

Your kidneys normally filter waste and extra fluids from your blood. If you stopped dialysis, your kidneys may still need help filtering waste. This test helps doctors see if your kidneys are doing enough work on their own or if you still need dialysis.

How the Test Works

You’ll collect all your urine over 24 hours. Doctors will measure how much creatinine (a waste product) passes through your urine and how much blood flows through your kidneys. This helps calculate how well your kidneys are filtering waste.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you’ll need to collect every drop of urine for 24 hours. Keep a diary or use a timer to track your urine output. Wear comfortable clothes and plan for extra bathroom trips.

What to Expect During the Test

You’ll collect urine in a container for 24 hours, including overnight. If you forget, remind yourself to start fresh the next morning. If you miss any urine, you’ll need to restart the collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Low creatinine clearance may mean your kidneys aren’t filtering waste well enough, which could lead to buildup of toxins in your blood. High clearance might suggest your kidneys are working better than expected, but doctors will still monitor you closely to avoid overworking them.

Short name

24h Urine Cr Clearance

Frequently asked questions

Will I need to stop taking any medications before this test?
No special medication changes are needed unless your doctor advises otherwise. Always follow your doctor’s instructions for any adjustments to your medications before tests.
How long will it take to get my results?
Results typically take 1–2 weeks to return, depending on your lab. Your doctor will contact you once they’re ready to discuss them.
Can I still eat and drink normally while collecting urine for this test?
Yes, you can eat and drink as usual. This test only involves collecting urine, not restricting food or fluids unless your doctor says otherwise.
  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