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Lead and Creatinine, Urine

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

Measures lead in urine and includes creatinine to help account for differences in urine concentration. It may be used to assess exposure to lead.

Quick summary

["Urine lead testing can help evaluate possible lead exposure, while creatinine helps make the urine result more interpretable."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
34327-7
Short code
Lead/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Lead/Creat Ur-sRto
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. Creatinine may also be measured because urine concentration varies with fluid intake and hydration, so the results can be interpreted more accurately together.

Why might I need this test?

Urine lead testing may be ordered for people with possible exposure to lead through work, hobbies, contaminated soil, old paint, water, or supplements. It may also be used to help assess workplace exposure or response to treatment for lead poisoning.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed for lead, often with creatinine. Depending on the order, the provider may request a single specimen or a timed collection, such as a 24-hour urine collection.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by the laboratory, including whether a timed collection is required. Tell your clinician about supplements, medications, occupational exposure, or possible exposure to old paint, soil, or contaminated water.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings2

Short name

Urine lead with creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Does this test show how much lead is in my body?
Urine lead reflects exposure to lead and can be affected by how recently exposure occurred. Blood lead may provide additional information about the amount of lead in the body.
Why is creatinine measured with urine lead?
Creatinine helps show how concentrated a urine specimen is. This allows the laboratory to account for differences in hydration when interpreting the lead result.
Can supplements or foods affect the result?
Lead-containing supplements and certain exposures can affect urine lead results. Tell your clinician about supplements, occupational contact with lead, and any recent exposure to old paint, soil, or contaminated water.
  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