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Urine Oxalate Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of oxalate, a chemical compound, in your urine. Oxalate can come from food, supplements, or metabolic processes.

Quick summary

["Oxalate levels in urine help identify potential kidney stones or metabolic conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12790-2
Short code
Oxalate sp2 p chal Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Oxalate sp2 p chal Ur-mCnc
Category
chemistry
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

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like kidney pain, frequent urination, or a history of kidney stones. It may also be used to monitor conditions like primary hyperoxaluria or other metabolic disorders that affect oxalate metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for this test. You’ll provide a urine sample, typically collected over a 24-hour period, unless specified otherwise. Drink plenty of water to help flush out oxalates naturally.

What the Test Results Mean

Results help determine if oxalate levels are unusually high or low. High levels may suggest kidney stones, metabolic disorders, or dietary factors. Low levels are less commonly evaluated but may indicate certain genetic or metabolic conditions.

Common Causes of Abnormal Results

High urine oxalate levels can be caused by dietary factors (e.g., high intake of oxalate-rich foods like spinach, nuts, or chocolate), certain medications, or metabolic disorders. Low levels are less frequently associated with specific conditions but may warrant further investigation.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Oxalate

Frequently asked questions

What does a high urine oxalate level indicate?
A high urine oxalate level may suggest an increased risk of kidney stones or metabolic issues affecting oxalate metabolism. Your doctor may recommend dietary changes, hydration adjustments, or additional tests to explore underlying causes.
Can diet affect urine oxalate test results?
Yes, diet plays a significant role. Foods high in oxalates (e.g., nuts, spinach, chocolate) can raise urine oxalate levels. Your provider may suggest dietary modifications if results are elevated.
How often should this test be repeated?
Frequency depends on your symptoms and medical history. If you have a history of kidney stones or metabolic concerns, your doctor may recommend periodic testing to monitor trends or guide treatment.
  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