24-Hour Urinary Sodium and Chloride Profile (Quantitative)
This test measures the amount of sodium and chloride in your urine over a 24-hour period to help assess kidney function and electrolyte balance.
["Helps diagnose kidney issues or electrolyte imbalances by tracking daily sodium and chloride excretion."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 31103-5
- Short code
- OF 0% NaCl 24h Inc NFr RBC
- Synonyms
- OF 0% NaCl 24h Inc NFr RBC
- Category
- electrolyte
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- 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 have symptoms like frequent urination, swelling, high blood pressure, or signs of kidney problems. It can also help evaluate conditions like kidney disease, heart failure, or certain hormonal disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period. Typically, you’ll start by emptying your bladder at home at the same time each morning, then collect every urine sample in a container until you repeat the first emptying the next morning. Preserve the samples properly to ensure accuracy.
What Happens During the Test
No special preparation is needed beyond collecting urine samples. The lab analyzes the combined urine to measure sodium and chloride levels.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine if your kidneys are properly filtering sodium and chloride. Abnormal levels may indicate kidney dysfunction, fluid retention, or other health concerns that need further evaluation.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
24h Urine Na+/Cl- Profile
Frequently asked questions
How much sodium and chloride are excreted in urine over 24 hours can reveal kidney function, fluid balance, and potential electrolyte disorders. High levels may suggest kidney issues or excessive fluid intake, while low levels could indicate kidney retention or certain medical conditions.
There is no single standard range for 24-hour urinary sodium and chloride because levels vary based on diet, hydration, and overall health. Your doctor will interpret the results in relation to your specific medical needs and symptoms.
Yes, your doctor may recommend adjustments to your fluid intake before the test to help assess your body’s handling of sodium and chloride. Follow their instructions carefully.
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