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Urine Immunoassay for Hemoglobin (Free or Total)

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

This test measures the presence of hemoglobin in your urine, which can indicate conditions affecting your red blood cells or kidneys.

Quick summary

["Hemoglobin in urine may signal bleeding, kidney disease, or other blood disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25716-2
Short code
LH Ur IRP1-aCnc
Synonyms
LH Ur IRP1-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
1.5
Ref high
9
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
st-irp
CPT
83002
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like frequent urination, dark urine, or signs of anemia. It’s also used to screen for conditions like hematuria (blood in urine) or hemolytic anemia (red blood cell destruction).

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to collect a midstream urine sample. Avoid using certain medications or supplements that could interfere with results for 24–48 hours before testing.

How the Test Works

A small sample of your urine is analyzed using an immunoassay method to detect hemoglobin. This test can differentiate between free hemoglobin (from red blood cell breakdown) and hemoglobin bound to other substances.

Possible Results and Interpretation

A positive result suggests abnormal bleeding, kidney damage, or red blood cell disorders. A negative result means no detectable hemoglobin in your urine, but further evaluation may still be needed if symptoms persist.

Reference range

Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A

Specimen: urine

For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Elevated hemoglobin in urine can signal underlying conditions like glomerulonephritis (kidney inflammation), urinary tract infections, or trauma. Low or absent results are typically normal but shouldn’t rule out other causes of symptoms like fatigue or pain.

Short name

Urine Hemoglobin Test

Frequently asked questions

What Does a Positive Result Mean?
A positive result may indicate conditions such as hematuria (visible or microscopic blood in urine), hemolytic anemia, or kidney disease. Your doctor will discuss next steps, which could include additional tests or imaging.
Can Diet or Medications Affect This Test?
Certain foods (e.g., beets, berries) or medications (e.g., NSAIDs, blood thinners) can temporarily alter urine color or contain hemoglobin-like substances. Always inform your provider about all medications or supplements you take.
How Often Should This Test Be Done?
Frequency depends on your symptoms and medical history. Some patients need routine monitoring (e.g., every 3–6 months) if they have a history of kidney disease or recurrent hematuria. Follow your provider’s guidance.
  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