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Selenium/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

This urine test measures selenium relative to creatinine, helping assess selenium levels while accounting for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["The result can help identify unusually low or high selenium levels relative to the amount of creatinine in the urine."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13467-6
Short code
Selenium/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Selenium/Creat Ur
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?

This test measures the amount of selenium in urine compared with the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used as a marker of urine concentration, so the ratio can help show whether selenium excretion is unusually low or high.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when selenium deficiency or excess is suspected. It may be considered for people with nutritional problems, malabsorption, certain chronic illnesses, or exposure to selenium-containing supplements.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The selenium and creatinine measurements are used to calculate the reported ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's instructions about the type and timing of urine collection. Tell the laboratory if you take selenium supplements or other vitamin or mineral products, because these can affect the result.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine selenium ratio

Frequently asked questions

Why is creatinine included in this test?
Creatinine helps adjust the selenium measurement for how concentrated the urine is. This makes results easier to compare across samples.
Can supplements affect the result?
Yes. Selenium supplements and multivitamins containing selenium can raise urinary selenium levels, especially if taken shortly before collection.
Does an abnormal result confirm a selenium deficiency or overdose?
No. The result must be interpreted with symptoms, diet, supplement use, medical history, and other laboratory tests by a qualified clinician.
  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