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Lead Substance Concentration in Urine (24-hour collection)

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

This test measures the total amount of lead found in your urine over a full day. Lead is a heavy metal that can build up in the body and may cause health problems if present in high levels.

Quick summary

["A 24-hour urine lead test helps detect long-term exposure to lead, which may not be detected by a single blood test alone."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
14808-0
Short code
Lead Ur-sCnc
Synonyms
Lead Ur-sCnc
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 abdominal pain, fatigue, or neurological issues), if you work in an environment with lead exposure, or if you have certain medical conditions that increase your risk of lead exposure. It can also be used to monitor treatment progress for lead poisoning.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period. Typically, you’ll start by emptying your bladder at home in the morning, then collect every urine sample in a special container until you empty your bladder again the next morning. The collected urine is then sent to the lab for testing.

What to Expect During the Test

There are no injections or needles involved. You’ll simply be instructed to follow the urine collection instructions provided by your healthcare team.

What the Results Mean

Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your symptoms, medical history, and other tests. Elevated levels may indicate exposure to lead, which can affect organs like the kidneys, brain, and nervous system. Very high levels can be life-threatening.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Lead exposure can cause a range of health issues, including developmental problems in children, damage to the nervous system, kidney problems, and even cancer in severe cases. Chronic exposure may lead to long-term health complications. This test helps identify whether lead has accumulated in your body over time, guiding treatment decisions if needed.

Short name

24-Hour Urinary Lead

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated urinary lead levels?
Elevated urinary lead levels can result from exposure to lead through contaminated food, water, dust, or environmental sources like old paint, pipes, or industrial settings. Occupational exposure (e.g., working in construction, battery manufacturing) is another common cause.
How is lead poisoning treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of exposure. If detected early, your doctor may recommend reducing exposure, following a lead-free diet, and using chelation therapy (medications that help remove lead from the body) in severe cases. Lifestyle changes and monitoring are key to managing long-term effects.
Can children be tested for lead exposure?
Yes, children are at higher risk of lead poisoning because their bodies absorb lead more easily. If you have a child, especially if they live in an older home or have access to lead-based products, your doctor may recommend testing for lead exposure, including urine tests, to ensure their health and development are not affected.
  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