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Oxalate in Urine (Quantitative, 24-Hour Collection)

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

This test measures the amount of oxalate, a chemical compound, in your urine over a 24-hour period. Oxalate can come from food, supplements, or metabolic processes.

Quick summary

["Helps assess risk of kidney stones or metabolic issues linked to oxalate buildup."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
12795-1
Short code
Oxalate sp7 p chal Ur-mCnc
Synonyms
Oxalate sp7 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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent kidney stones, unexplained pain in your back or side, or if you have a family history of kidney stones or certain metabolic disorders. It may also be used to monitor conditions like primary hyperoxaluria or other disorders affecting oxalate metabolism.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all urine for a full 24-hour period. Typically, you’ll start the collection right after waking up and continue until you wake up the next morning. Store the urine in a refrigerator and bring the entire sample to your doctor’s office or lab.

What to Expect During the Test

No special preparation is needed beyond the 24-hour urine collection. The lab will analyze the sample to determine the total oxalate content.

What the Results Mean

Results are compared to standard ranges for healthy individuals. High levels may indicate conditions like kidney stones, certain genetic disorders, or malabsorption issues. Low levels might suggest dietary deficiencies or other metabolic factors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine Oxalate

Frequently asked questions

What causes high urine oxalate levels?
High urine oxalate levels can result from dietary factors (e.g., excessive intake of oxalate-rich foods like spinach, nuts, or chocolate), certain medications, or metabolic disorders. Lifestyle and dietary changes, such as reducing oxalate intake or increasing fluid consumption, may help manage levels.
How can I lower my urine oxalate levels?
Consult your doctor for personalized advice. Generally, reducing high-oxalate foods, staying hydrated, and possibly taking calcium supplements (if recommended) can help. Avoiding excessive vitamin C supplements and managing other health conditions like celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease may also help.
Is there any risk or side effect from this test?
The 24-hour urine collection involves no direct medical risks, but improper collection or storage could affect results. Ensure you follow your doctor’s instructions carefully to get accurate results.
  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