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Urine Lead-to-Creatinine Ratio

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

Measures urine lead relative to urine creatinine to help assess lead exposure while accounting for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test can help detect increased lead exposure, but results must be interpreted with exposure history and other clinical findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13466-8
Short code
Lead/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Lead/Creat Ur
Category
kidney
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

What is this test?

This test measures the amount of lead in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used to account for variations in urine concentration, so the ratio can be useful when a single urine sample is collected.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to screen for or monitor exposure to lead, particularly in workers who may encounter lead on the job or people with possible environmental exposure. It may also be included in evaluation of unexplained symptoms or suspected poisoning.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The laboratory measures lead and creatinine and calculates the lead-to-creatinine ratio. The sample type and collection time, such as a spot sample or timed collection, depend on the testing instructions.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's or laboratory's collection instructions. For a spot sample, you may be asked to provide a clean-catch urine specimen, and the laboratory may provide a special metal-free container. Tell the healthcare team about recent work, hobbies, or other possible lead exposure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine lead-to-creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Is a urine lead-to-creatinine ratio the same as a blood lead test?
No. Urine testing reflects lead eliminated in the urine, while a blood lead test measures lead circulating in the blood. They may be used together when exposure is suspected or being monitored.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Urine concentration can vary from person to person and from sample to sample. Comparing lead with creatinine helps reduce the effect of dilution or concentration.
Can I use a home urine test for lead?
Home collection and screening tests may help identify possible exposure, but they do not replace laboratory testing or medical evaluation. Follow laboratory collection instructions to reduce contamination and obtain a reliable result.
  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