24-Hour Urine Oxalate Measurement
This test measures the amount of oxalate, a chemical produced by the body that can contribute to kidney stones or other health issues when levels are too high. It involves collecting all urine for a full day.
["Helps assess risk for kidney stones or metabolic conditions linked to oxalate buildup."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 27222-9
- Short code
- Oxalate 24h Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Oxalate 24h Ur-mCnc
- 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 Matters
Oxalate is a natural substance in the body that can form crystals in the kidneys, sometimes leading to kidney stones. High levels may also be linked to other conditions like certain metabolic disorders. This test helps doctors check if your body is producing too much oxalate over 24 hours.
How the Test Works
You’ll collect all urine produced in a 24-hour period in a special container. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis to measure oxalate concentration.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to drink extra fluids to help flush out oxalate. Avoid certain supplements or foods high in oxalates (like spinach, nuts, or chocolate) for a few days before testing if advised by your doctor.
Common Causes of High Oxalate Levels
High oxalate levels can result from diet (e.g., excessive intake of high-oxalate foods), certain medical conditions (like celiac disease or kidney disease), or metabolic disorders. Lifestyle factors, such as dehydration or alcohol use, may also play a role.
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
Oxalate (24-hour urine)
Frequently asked questions
What might high or low oxalate levels indicate?
How often should this test be done?
Can diet changes affect oxalate levels?
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