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Iron in Urine (24-Hour Collection)

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

This test measures the total amount of iron excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. It helps assess how much iron your body is losing through urine, which can be important for diagnosing or monitoring certain conditions.

Quick summary

["This test helps evaluate iron loss in urine, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like hemochromatosis or excessive iron excretion."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
111392-7
Short code
Iron Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Iron Msmt Ur
Category
chemistry
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weakness, or unexplained iron deficiency, especially if other tests (like serum iron levels) don’t provide a clear answer. It could also be used to monitor conditions where iron loss in urine is known to occur, such as certain kidney diseases or genetic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period, typically starting after urinating in the morning. Collect all urine in a container, and return it to the lab on the next morning. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

How the Test Works

The test measures the total iron content in your urine over the day. This involves analyzing the collected urine sample to determine how much iron was excreted, which can be compared to expected values for your body’s needs and health status.

What the Results Mean

Results may indicate whether you’re losing iron through urine at a rate higher or lower than normal. High levels might suggest conditions causing excessive iron excretion, while normal or low levels may help confirm typical iron metabolism.

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.

Clinical Significance

Short name

24-Hour Urine Iron

Frequently asked questions

What does a high urine iron level mean?
A high urine iron level may signal conditions like primary hyperoxaluria, certain kidney diseases, or excessive iron intake that leads to urinary loss. It can also be part of evaluating iron overload disorders or monitoring treatment responses.
What does a low urine iron level mean?
A low urine iron level is less commonly evaluated in isolation but may be considered if you have symptoms of iron deficiency or if other tests suggest abnormal iron metabolism. It could also be part of a broader assessment for conditions affecting iron absorption or storage.
How often should I get this test?
Your healthcare provider will determine how often you need this test based on your medical history, symptoms, and other test results. It may be done periodically if you have a known condition affecting iron excretion or loss.
  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