Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) with 24-hour urine collection for measurement of urinary excretion

Why This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect you have unusual patterns of blood sugar control, such as frequent spikes or drops, or if you have conditions like kidney disease that affect how hemoglobin is processed. It can also help monitor how well medications are working over time.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after you urinate in the morning of the first day. Store the urine in a refrigerator and bring the entire sample to the lab. Follow any specific instructions your provider gives you to ensure accurate results.

What Happens During the Test

The lab analyzes the collected urine sample to measure the amount of hemoglobin A1c that has been excreted. This involves specialized testing to detect and quantify the substance in your urine.

What the Results Mean

While standard HbA1c tests measure average blood sugar over three months, this urine test provides insight into how much of your hemoglobin is being broken down and excreted daily. Higher levels may indicate conditions like kidney disease or other metabolic issues affecting hemoglobin metabolism.