Lithium concentration in serum (24-hour urine collection)
This test measures how much lithium is excreted in your urine over a full day. Lithium is often used to treat certain mental health conditions, and this test helps doctors check how well your body is processing it.
["Assesses kidney function and lithium levels in urine for treatment monitoring."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56032-6
- Short code
- Lithium Gast-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Lithium Gast-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 10
- Ref high
- 40
- Critical range
- — – 1.6 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84484
- SNOMED
- 302774002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you’re taking lithium to manage conditions like bipolar disorder or certain types of depression. It helps ensure your kidneys are handling lithium safely and effectively. A 24-hour urine collection is needed to get an accurate picture of your daily lithium exposure.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to collect all urine for 24 hours, starting right after your first morning pee. Store the sample in a cool place until you bring it to the lab. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to avoid missing any urine.
How the Test Works
The collected urine is tested for lithium concentration using a specialized lab method. This helps determine whether your kidneys are removing lithium properly or if levels are too high or low.
What the Results Mean
Results help doctors adjust your lithium dose if needed. High levels may indicate kidney problems or improper dosing, while low levels might suggest you’re not absorbing enough lithium. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you.
Reference range
Adult: 10-40 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Lithium urine testing is critical for monitoring kidney function and preventing toxicity. Chronic high levels can cause serious side effects, while inadequate levels may reduce treatment effectiveness. Regular monitoring ensures safe and effective management of your condition.
Short name
Lithium Urine Test (24-Hour)
Frequently asked questions
How long does a 24-hour urine collection take?
What if I miss any urine during the collection?
Can I drink alcohol during the urine collection?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy