Skip to content

Nickel/Creatinine Mass Ratio, 24-Hour Urine

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

A 24-hour urine test that measures nickel relative to creatinine, used to help assess recent nickel exposure and guide occupational or toxicology evaluation.

Quick summary

["This test can help identify increased nickel exposure, but the result must be interpreted with your exposure history and other clinical findings."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25962-2
Short code
Nickel/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Nickel/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
22
Ref high
198
Critical range
— – 10000 N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82553
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 nickel in urine collected over 24 hours and compares it with the amount of creatinine in the same collection. Creatinine is a waste product produced by the muscles and is commonly used to help account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered to assess exposure to nickel, especially in workers who handle metals, batteries, electronics, catalysts, pigments, or metal-plating products. It may also be used when a clinician wants to evaluate suspected environmental or occupational exposure.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a full 24-hour period according to the laboratory's instructions. The laboratory measures nickel and creatinine in the collection and calculates the nickel-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully and record when the collection starts and ends. Tell the clinician about workplace exposure, recent metal exposure, supplements, medications, and unusual changes in urine output; do not alter your diet or stop prescribed medicines unless instructed.

Reference range

Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-hour urine nickel/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test show how much nickel I was exposed to?
It provides an estimate of recent nickel absorption through the kidneys. It does not identify the exact source or amount of exposure and should be reviewed with an exposure history.
Why is a 24-hour urine collection needed?
A 24-hour collection captures urine throughout a full day and is less affected by short-term differences in fluid intake. The nickel-to-creatinine ratio provides additional context for the concentration of the collection.
What if my urine collection is incomplete or overfilled?
An incomplete collection may make the result less reliable, while an overfilled container may cause the sample to be rejected. Contact the laboratory for specific instructions if the collection is not exactly as directed.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy