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Nickel and Creatinine, Urine

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

A urine test that measures nickel and may include creatinine to account for urine concentration, often used when nickel exposure is suspected.

Quick summary

["Urine nickel testing can help evaluate recent exposure to nickel, with creatinine sometimes used to improve interpretation."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52926-3
Short code
Nickel/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Nickel/Creat 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 a urine sample. A creatinine measurement may also be included to help account for differences in how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

Urine nickel testing may be ordered for people who work with nickel or nickel-containing materials, or who have had a possible exposure. It may also be used to follow certain occupational exposure monitoring programs.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in a laboratory. The collection may be a single spot sample or part of a timed collection, depending on the instructions from your healthcare or workplace testing program.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided with the test. Use the specified sterile container, collect the full amount requested, and note the collection time if a timed sample is required. Tell your clinician about recent work, hobbies, or other possible nickel exposure.

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

Urine Nickel

Frequently asked questions

Does this test diagnose nickel poisoning?
No. It measures a marker of possible exposure, but poisoning or another health condition requires clinical evaluation and may require additional testing.
Why is creatinine included?
Urine concentration can change with fluid intake, and creatinine helps provide context when interpreting the urine nickel result.
Can I collect this test at home?
Collection requirements vary by the ordering program. Some workplace programs provide containers and specific collection instructions, so follow those instructions or contact the testing provider before collecting a sample.
  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