Lead Exposure Screening Test (Mass Concentration in Urine)
This test measures the amount of lead in your urine to help assess potential exposure to this heavy metal, which can affect the nervous system and other organs.
["A simple urine test to check for lead exposure, often used in occupational or environmental health evaluations."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 39193-8
- Short code
- LEADEXPOSURETOSCREENASSESSMENT
- Synonyms
- —
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- cphs
- 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
Lead exposure can occur from contaminated food, water, dust, or workplace environments. Even low levels can cause health issues, especially in children. This screening helps identify possible exposure before symptoms develop.
How the Test Works
Your urine sample is collected and tested for lead using a sensitive laboratory method. The test detects the presence of lead in your body’s waste products, which can indicate recent exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or supplements that could affect results. Drink plenty of water the day before to ensure a good urine sample.
What the Results Mean
Results are typically reported as a mass concentration of lead in your urine. Higher levels may suggest recent exposure, while very low levels usually indicate no significant risk. Follow-up testing or evaluation may be recommended if results are elevated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
Lead Urine Test (Screen)
Frequently asked questions
Lead exposure can cause long-term health problems, including developmental delays in children, nerve damage, and organ toxicity. Early screening helps monitor high-risk individuals, such as those working in certain industries or living in areas with contaminated soil/water.
How often should I get this test?
What if my test results are high?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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