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24-Hour Urinary Uric Acid Excretion Rate

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures how much uric acid your body excretes over a full day through urine. Uric acid is a waste product from breaking down certain compounds, and its levels can be influenced by diet, metabolism, and kidney function.

Quick summary

["Understanding your uric acid excretion helps assess kidney health and potential risk for conditions like gout or kidney stones."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57387-3
Short code
Urate 12h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
Urate 12h Ur-mRate
Category
chemistry
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Ref low
3.5
Ref high
7.2
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 Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect kidney problems, gout, or other metabolic conditions that affect uric acid processing. It can also help monitor long-term kidney function or diagnose conditions where uric acid buildup is a concern.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll need to collect all your urine over a 24-hour period, typically starting and ending at the same time each day. Store the urine in a refrigerator or cool container to keep it fresh. Bring the entire sample to your lab appointment.

How the Test Works

The collected urine is analyzed to determine the total amount of uric acid excreted. This is done using a specialized laboratory method to measure the substance concentration accurately.

What the Results Mean

Results are usually reported in milligrams per day (mg/day). While specific reference ranges can vary by lab, higher than expected excretion may indicate conditions like kidney dysfunction, while very low levels could suggest metabolic disorders or medications affecting uric acid metabolism.

Reference range

NCBI: Uric Acid Male 3.5-7.2 mg/dL; Female 2.5-6.8 mg/dLN/A

Specimen: urine

No special preparation usually required. Stay well hydrated. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications and supplements you are taking.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

Urate 24h Rate

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low uric acid excretion rate indicate?
High excretion rates may signal kidney issues, such as impaired filtering, or conditions like Fanconi syndrome, where the kidneys fail to reabsorb uric acid properly. Very low excretion could be linked to genetic disorders, certain medications, or metabolic abnormalities that reduce uric acid production or excretion.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency depends on your health status and any ongoing conditions. Your doctor may recommend this test annually or more often if you have kidney disease, gout, or other related health concerns. Regular follow-ups help monitor trends and adjust treatment if needed.
Can diet affect this test result?
Yes, diet plays a role. High-purine foods (like red meat, organ meats, and certain seafood) can increase uric acid levels. Avoiding these foods for a few days before testing may help provide a more accurate baseline. Always follow your doctor’s specific dietary instructions if applicable.
  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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy