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Lead Urine 8-Hour Rate

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

This test measures how much lead your body is excreting in urine over an 8-hour period. Lead is a heavy metal that can build up in the body and may affect your health, especially in children.

Quick summary

["This test helps assess long-term lead exposure and kidney function."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
31083-9
Short code
Lead 8h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
Lead 8h Ur-mRate
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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of lead poisoning (such as fatigue, abdominal pain, or neurological issues) or if you’ve been exposed to lead in your workplace, home, or environment. It’s also used to monitor people with known lead exposure or kidney problems. Children with developmental delays or frequent infections might also be tested.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect your urine over an 8-hour period (typically starting at home or in a clinic). Follow your healthcare provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. You may be asked to drink extra fluids to help pass urine.

How the Test Works

Your urine sample is analyzed to measure lead levels. The test detects lead in your body’s waste products, which helps track how much lead is being removed over time.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal lead levels may indicate ongoing exposure or poor kidney function. Your doctor will interpret results in relation to your symptoms, medical history, and other tests.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Lead in urine (8-hour collection)

Frequently asked questions

What does an elevated lead urine test mean?
An elevated result suggests your body is still processing lead, which could mean recent exposure or ongoing health risks. Your doctor will discuss next steps, such as reducing exposure or further testing.
How often should I get this test?
Your doctor will determine the frequency based on your exposure history, symptoms, and other factors. Regular testing may be needed if you work in a high-risk environment or have known lead exposure.
Can I drink alcohol before this test?
No, avoid alcohol before collecting your urine sample, as it may affect urine flow or test accuracy. Follow your healthcare provider’s specific instructions for the best results.
  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