Serum Lysozyme Concentration (24-Hour Urine Collection)
This test measures the amount of lysozyme, a protein that helps fight bacteria, in your urine over a 24-hour period. It may be used to assess certain inflammatory or infectious conditions.
["Lysozyme in urine can signal immune system activity or potential infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56038-3
- Short code
- Lysozyme 24h Ur
- Synonyms
- Lysozyme 24h Ur
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 20
- Ref high
- 400
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82670
- 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 healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, chronic inflammation, or conditions such as cystic fibrosis, granulomatous diseases, or certain immune disorders. It can also help monitor treatment responses in some cases.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period. Start by emptying your bladder completely upon waking, then collect every drop of urine for the next 24 hours. Store the urine in a refrigerator and return it to your provider on time. Follow any specific instructions they give you.
What Happens During the Test
No special preparation is needed beyond the urine collection. The sample is sent to a lab for analysis, typically using an immunoassay or nephelometry method to measure lysozyme levels.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a reference range specific to your lab. Elevated levels may indicate an active immune response or infection, while lower levels could suggest immune dysfunction or certain genetic conditions. Your provider will discuss these findings with you.
Reference range
Premenopausal: 20-400 pg/mL; Postmenopausal: <30 pg/mLN/A
No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Urine Lysozyme
Frequently asked questions
How is lysozyme in urine typically measured?
Elevated lysozyme in urine can occur with certain infections (e.g., bacterial), inflammatory conditions, or in people with genetic disorders like cystic fibrosis or chronic granulomatous disease. Your provider will consider your symptoms and overall health when interpreting results.
Yes, a full 24-hour urine collection is standard for lysozyme testing to provide an accurate average level over time. Skipping any urine or missing the collection window can lead to unreliable results.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy