Skip to content

Selenium and Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

Measures the amount of selenium relative to creatinine in urine. Creatinine helps account for differences in urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This ratio can help assess urinary selenium levels in relation to how concentrated the urine is."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
52923-0
Short code
Selenium/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Selenium/Creat 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?

This urine test measures selenium relative to creatinine, a substance used to estimate how concentrated a urine sample is. The ratio can help interpret selenium levels from a single urine specimen.

Why might I need this test?

Your clinician may order this test when evaluating selenium intake, supplement use, occupational exposure, or a suspected excessive or insufficient selenium level.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed to determine the amounts of selenium and creatinine. The laboratory then compares the two values to calculate the ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow your clinician's collection instructions. Tell the laboratory about selenium supplements and include any instructions for collecting a timed or first-morning urine sample.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine selenium/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

Does this test show how much selenium is in my body?
It shows the amount of selenium in urine compared with creatinine. It is most useful as part of a clinical evaluation and may be paired with blood or other selenium measurements.
Why is creatinine included in the result?
Urine can range from very dilute to highly concentrated. Comparing selenium with creatinine helps reduce the effect of urine concentration on the result.
Should I stop taking selenium supplements before testing?
Do not stop supplements or change your diet unless your clinician instructs you to do so. Tell the healthcare provider and laboratory about all selenium supplements so the result can be interpreted correctly.
  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