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Mercury and Creatinine, 24-Hour Urine

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

Measures mercury and creatinine in urine collected over 24 hours to assess mercury exposure and account for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test can help detect elevated mercury exposure, and the result should be interpreted by your clinician."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26688-2
Short code
Mercury/Creat 24h Ur
Synonyms
Mercury/Creat 24h Ur
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 mercury in all urine collected over 24 hours. Creatinine is also measured to help evaluate urine concentration and the completeness of the collection.

Why might I need this test?

It may be ordered to evaluate exposure to mercury from occupational sources, contaminated foods or water, certain products, or other possible sources. Your clinician will consider your exposure history and symptoms when interpreting the result.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for 24 hours in the container provided by the laboratory. The amount and collection time are recorded, and the sample is then analyzed for mercury and creatinine.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully and collect every urine sample during the full 24-hour period. Do not change your diet or take extra medicines unless your clinician instructs you to, as some exposures and substances can affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-hour urine mercury

Frequently asked questions

What does a 24-hour urine test show?
It estimates the total amount of mercury your body eliminated in urine during the collection period. This can be more informative than a single urine sample for assessing exposure.
Why is creatinine measured with urine mercury?
Creatinine helps show how concentrated the urine is and can help assess whether the collection appears adequate. Interpretation should consider the overall 24-hour result and clinical context.
Do I need to change my diet before this test?
Usually, you should keep your diet and usual routines as normal as possible because changes could affect the result. Follow any specific instructions from your clinician or laboratory.
  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