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PABA (Para-Aminobenzoic Acid) 24-Hour Urine Excretion Rate

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

This test measures how much para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) appears in urine collected over 24 hours, expressed as an excretion rate, to help assess how the kidneys handle this substance.

Quick summary

["A 24-hour urine PABA excretion rate reflects how much of this compound leaves the body in urine over a full day, reported as an amount per unit time."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
34186-7
Short code
pABA 24h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
pABA 24h Ur-mRate
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

What Is PABA?

Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a naturally occurring compound related to the B-vitamin family. It is found in small amounts in foods and can also be produced in the body, and it is filtered and excreted by the kidneys.

Why Collect Urine for 24 Hours?

A single urine sample only shows a snapshot. Collecting all urine over 24 hours gives a more complete picture of how much PABA the body excretes in a full day, which is why this test uses a timed collection.

How the Rate Is Reported

Rather than a simple concentration, the result is a rate: the total amount of PABA in the 24-hour collection divided by the collection time. This requires an accurately timed and complete collection for a meaningful result.

Proper Collection Matters

You generally collect every urine sample over the full 24-hour period, following the instructions provided by your laboratory, and store the container as directed. Missing samples or incorrect timing can make the result unreliable, so follow collection instructions carefully.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A 24-hour urine PABA excretion rate is used to evaluate how the kidneys eliminate this compound over time. It may be ordered to assess renal handling or as part of broader metabolic or absorption-related evaluation, depending on the clinical context. Results should always be interpreted by a healthcare provider alongside the collection details and other findings, since excretion can be influenced by kidney function and completeness of the collection.

Short name

PABA 24h Urine Rate

Frequently asked questions

How do I collect the 24-hour urine sample?
Your laboratory will give specific instructions, but in general you discard the first urine of the collection period, then save all urine produced over the next 24 hours into the provided container, finishing with the first urine at the end of the period. Keep the container as instructed and bring the full collection to the lab.
What can affect my PABA urine result?
An incomplete or incorrectly timed collection is the most common problem. Kidney function and other individual factors can also influence how much PABA appears in urine. Your healthcare provider will consider these when interpreting your result.
Will I get an exact reference range with my results?
Reference ranges vary by laboratory and method, and no single numeric range applies to everyone. Your lab report or healthcare provider will supply the appropriate reference information for your test and explain what your result means.
  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