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Iron and Creatinine Ratio, Urine

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

Measures urine iron relative to urine creatinine, helping account for variations in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test estimates how much iron is being lost in the urine relative to creatinine."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
27411-8
Short code
Iron/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Iron/Creat Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
60
Ref high
170
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
83540
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

What is this test?

This urine test measures the amount of iron relative to the amount of creatinine in the same sample. Creatinine is used as a reference for urine concentration, so the ratio can help compare iron excretion among samples.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be used to assess iron loss through the kidneys, particularly in people with iron overload or conditions that may increase iron excretion. It may also help evaluate iron-related treatment when ordered by a clinician.

How is the test performed?

A urine specimen is analyzed for iron and creatinine using laboratory testing methods. The laboratory calculates the iron-to-creatinine ratio from the results. If a timed collection is requested, all urine collected during the specified period must be included.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory. Your clinician may advise you about iron supplements or other products that could affect the result, but do not stop prescribed medicines unless instructed to do so.

Reference range

NCBI: Serum Iron Male 65-180; Female 50-170 µg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

Fasting for 12 hours preferred. Iron supplements should be stopped 24 hours before if possible.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine iron/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test show how much iron is in my body?
No. It measures iron relative to creatinine in the urine. Blood tests such as ferritin and transferrin saturation are usually more useful for assessing overall body iron stores.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Urine can range from very concentrated to very dilute. Creatinine helps adjust the iron measurement for urine concentration so the results are more comparable.
Can iron supplements affect this test?
They may, particularly if taken shortly before urine collection. Tell your clinician and laboratory about any iron supplements or other relevant products, and follow their preparation instructions.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy