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Tellurium/Creatinine, Urine — Mass Ratio

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

Measures urinary tellurium relative to creatinine, helping assess recent tellurium exposure while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["An elevated result may indicate recent exposure to tellurium and should be interpreted with the timing of exposure and other clinical findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
108527-3
Short code
Tellurium/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Tellurium/Creat Msmt 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 urine test measures the amount of tellurium relative to the amount of creatinine in the urine. Creatinine is used as a marker of urine concentration, so the ratio helps reduce the effect of changes in urine volume.

Why might I need this test?

The test may be ordered to investigate suspected exposure to tellurium, an element that can occur in some industrial settings, certain manufacturing processes, and uncommon supplements or remedies.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is analyzed in a laboratory to determine the tellurium-to-creatinine ratio. The laboratory may use a trace-element measurement method and report the result as a mass ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions, which may specify a timed or first-morning urine sample. Collect the sample in the provided clean container, note the collection time, and avoid contamination from handling the container.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated urine tellurium-to-creatinine ratio may indicate recent absorption or exposure to tellurium. Interpretation depends on the amount and timing of exposure, occupational or supplement use, urine collection conditions, and the laboratory's reference interval. Symptoms and other laboratory findings are needed to determine whether exposure caused any harm.

Short name

Urinary tellurium/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does this urine test measure?
It measures tellurium relative to creatinine in urine. Creatinine adjustment helps account for variations in how concentrated the urine sample is.
What can cause an elevated result?
Recent occupational, environmental, or product-related exposure to tellurium can raise the urine level. The result should be reviewed along with exposure history and other relevant tests.
Does an elevated result automatically mean I was poisoned?
No. It indicates that more tellurium than expected was present at the time of collection, but it does not by itself establish poisoning or the severity of health effects.
  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