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24-Hour Urinary Selenium Excretion Rate

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

This test measures how much selenium your body excretes in urine over a full day. Selenium is an essential mineral that plays a role in supporting immune function, antioxidant protection, and thyroid health.

Quick summary

["Assessing selenium loss helps identify potential deficiencies or unusual excretion patterns."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52908-1
Short code
Selenium 24h Ur-sRate
Synonyms
Selenium 24h Ur-sRate
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 or conditions linked to selenium imbalance, such as persistent fatigue, immune issues, or thyroid problems. It could also be used to monitor selenium levels in patients with certain genetic disorders or those receiving selenium supplements.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You’ll provide a 24-hour urine collection in sterile containers, starting and ending at the same time each day. Follow your provider’s instructions carefully to ensure accurate results.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your body is retaining or losing selenium appropriately. Abnormal results may signal deficiencies or excesses, which could affect your health. Your provider will discuss these findings with you.

Common Reasons for Testing

This test is often used to evaluate selenium metabolism, especially in patients with conditions like selenoprotein disorders, chronic kidney disease, or those on long-term selenium treatments.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Selenium in urine over 24 hours

Frequently asked questions

How is this test different from a simple selenium blood test?
This test measures how much selenium your body *actively* removes in urine over 24 hours, rather than just measuring selenium levels in your blood or other fluids. It provides insight into how well your kidneys and metabolism are processing selenium.
What are typical reference ranges for this test?
Reference ranges vary by lab and individual factors like age, sex, and overall health. Your results will be compared to your specific lab’s standards, and your provider will explain what they mean for you.
Can diet affect this test?
Yes, selenium intake from food or supplements can influence urinary excretion. To avoid interference, your provider may ask you to avoid high-selenium foods or supplements for a few days before testing.
  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