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24-Hour Urinary Inorganic Arsenic Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the total amount of inorganic arsenic found in your urine over a 24-hour period. Arsenic is a chemical element that can sometimes be present in drinking water or food, and high levels may pose health risks.

Quick summary

["Assesses long-term arsenic exposure through urine samples."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
41992-9
Short code
Inorg Arsenic 24h Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Inorg Arsenic 24h Ur-mCnc
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have been exposed to arsenic (e.g., from contaminated water, certain medications, or occupational hazards) or if you live in an area with known arsenic contamination in drinking water. It can also help monitor treatment for arsenic-related conditions.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, starting right after you wake up and ending just before you wake up the next morning. Store the urine in a refrigerator or freezer until you deliver it to the lab. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What to Expect During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond collecting your urine sample as directed. The lab will analyze the sample for inorganic arsenic levels using advanced techniques like mass spectrometry.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to reference ranges specific to arsenic exposure and health status. High levels may indicate environmental or occupational exposure, while low levels may suggest normal exposure. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your medical history and symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

24-hour urine arsenic

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated arsenic levels in urine?
Elevated arsenic levels in urine can result from exposure to arsenic in drinking water, contaminated food, or occupational settings (e.g., mining, electronics manufacturing). Chronic exposure may increase the risk of skin, lung, or other cancers, as well as cardiovascular and neurological issues. Your provider may also check for symptoms like skin changes, nausea, or neurological symptoms.
What should I do if my results are high?
If your results show elevated arsenic levels, your provider may recommend reducing exposure to arsenic sources (e.g., testing and treating drinking water, avoiding contaminated foods) and may suggest further testing or monitoring. They may also adjust medications or treatments if arsenic is linked to a specific condition.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your risk factors. If you have known arsenic exposure, your provider may order this test periodically to monitor changes in your levels. If you’re not at high risk, it may not be routinely recommended unless symptoms or concerns arise.
  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