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24-Hour Urinary Lead Excretion Rate

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

This test measures how much lead your body excretes in urine over a 24-hour period. Lead is a toxic metal that can affect the nervous system, blood cells, and other organs.

Quick summary

["Assessing lead exposure through urine helps identify chronic or ongoing ingestion."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14809-8
Short code
Lead 24h Ur-sRate
Synonyms
Lead 24h Ur-sRate
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 Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of lead poisoning (e.g., fatigue, abdominal pain, or neurological issues) or if you work in an environment with potential lead exposure (e.g., construction, battery recycling). It may also be used to monitor long-term exposure in people with known lead sensitivity.

How Is the Test Performed?

You’ll collect all your urine over a full 24-hour period in a special container. Typically, you start by emptying your bladder at home, then collect every urine sample into the container. At the end of 24 hours, you’ll return the container to your lab for testing.

What Are the Results?

Results are expressed in micrograms (µg) of lead per 24-hour urine sample. Higher levels may indicate chronic lead exposure, while normal levels suggest your body is processing lead efficiently.

What Do the Results Mean?

Elevated results may signal ongoing lead exposure, which could harm your health. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24h Lead Urine Rate

Frequently asked questions

How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your risk factors, such as job exposure, symptoms, or known lead history. Follow-up may be needed if initial results are elevated.
What can I do to lower my lead exposure?
Avoid lead-containing products (e.g., old paint, certain foods, or contaminated water). If you work in a high-risk environment, use protective gear. If you’re pregnant or caring for a child, limit exposure further.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No special preparation is needed, but avoid lead-containing products (e.g., certain foods, supplements) for 24 hours before testing. Drink plenty of water to help flush lead from your system.
  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