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Thallium/Creatinine [Mass Ratio] in Urine

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

Measures urinary thallium relative to urine creatinine, helping evaluate recent or ongoing thallium exposure while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["An elevated result may indicate exposure to thallium, a toxic metal."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110356-3
Short code
Thallium/Creat Msmt Ur
Synonyms
Thallium/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 test measures the amount of thallium in urine relative to the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is used to help account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered to investigate suspected thallium exposure, especially after workplace contact with metals or ingestion of a contaminated product. It may also be used to monitor exposed individuals.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed in the laboratory. The laboratory reports the thallium amount compared with the urine creatinine amount, providing a concentration-adjusted result.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions provided by your clinician. For a spot sample, urine is collected at the specified time; if a 24-hour collection is requested, all urine must be collected for the full period and kept refrigerated as directed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Urine thallium/creatinine ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does a urine thallium/creatinine ratio measure?
It compares the amount of thallium in urine with the amount of creatinine. This helps reduce the effect of variations in how concentrated a urine sample is.
What can cause an elevated result?
The most common concern is exposure to thallium, a toxic metal. Possible sources include certain industrial processes, contaminated materials, or ingestion of products containing thallium.
Is this the same as a heavy-metal screening panel?
No. This test specifically evaluates thallium and may be ordered separately from a broader screening panel. Your clinician can determine which testing is appropriate for your situation.
  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