Oxalate in Urine (24-Hour Collection)

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may recommend a 24-hour urine oxalate test if you have a history of kidney stones, especially calcium oxalate stones, or if symptoms like pain in your side or back, nausea, or frequent urination are present. 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

For this test, you’ll collect all your urine over a 24-hour period, starting and ending at the same time each day. You’ll need to keep a record of the time and volume of each urine sample. Drink plenty of fluids to help flush out oxalates naturally, but avoid excessive caffeine or alcohol, as they may affect results.

What Happens During the Test

After collecting your urine samples, they’ll be sent to a lab for analysis. The lab will measure the total oxalate content in your urine over the 24-hour period. No special preparation is needed beyond following the collection instructions precisely.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as the total amount of oxalate excreted in milligrams (mg) over 24 hours. High levels may indicate conditions that increase oxalate production or absorption, while low levels might suggest other metabolic or dietary factors.