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24-Hour Urine Creatinine Excretion

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

Measures the total creatinine excreted in urine over 24 hours to help assess kidney function and check the completeness of a urine collection.

Quick summary

["This test measures how much creatinine your body excretes in urine over one day."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
25970-5
Short code
Phe/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Phe/Creat 24h Ur-sRto
Category
kidney
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 this test?

Creatinine is a waste product made by the muscles and filtered by the kidneys. This test measures the total amount of creatinine passed in urine during a 24-hour collection.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may use this test to assess kidney function or evaluate substances that are also measured in a 24-hour urine sample. Creatinine excretion can also help show whether the urine collection was complete.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for 24 hours in a labeled container provided by the laboratory or clinic. The container is then returned for analysis, and the amount of creatinine in the collected urine is measured.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinic, including the starting time, ending time, and how to store the container. Mention any medicines, supplements, pregnancy, or illness that could affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

24-Hour Urine Creatinine

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to collect all urine for exactly 24 hours?
Usually, yes. Follow the clinic's instructions about the exact start and finish times, and ask what to do if you miss a collection or need to use the restroom during the collection period.
Can I keep the urine container at home?
Often, yes, if the clinic provides refrigerated or preservative-containing containers and storage instructions. Promptly return the sample as directed, especially if it was not refrigerated.
Does drinking extra water change the result?
Very large changes in fluid intake can dilute urine and affect some measurements. Maintain your usual fluid intake unless your clinician instructs you to do otherwise.
  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