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Total Oxalate in Serum

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

This test measures the amount of oxalate, a naturally occurring substance in your blood, which can come from certain foods or metabolic processes.

Quick summary

["Oxalate levels help assess risks related to kidney stones or metabolic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
37766-3
Short code
XR tomo LE-R
Synonyms
XR tomo LE-R
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-tomography
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like kidney pain, frequent urination, or a history of kidney stones. It may also be used to monitor conditions affecting how your body processes oxalate, such as certain metabolic disorders or after treatments for hyperoxaluria.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the blood draw if instructed by your provider. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to stay near the testing site for a short time.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief sting, but the procedure is quick. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis.

What the Results Mean

Results are typically reported as a concentration of oxalate in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). High levels may indicate conditions like primary hyperoxaluria or kidney issues, while low levels may suggest deficiencies or certain dietary factors.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

Serum Oxalate

Frequently asked questions

What causes elevated oxalate levels in the blood?
Elevated oxalate levels can result from genetic conditions (such as primary hyperoxaluria), certain dietary habits (like high intake of oxalate-rich foods), kidney problems, or metabolic disorders. Lifestyle factors, medications, or underlying health conditions may also play a role.
How can I lower my oxalate levels if my test results are high?
If your levels are elevated, your healthcare provider may recommend dietary changes, such as reducing oxalate-rich foods (e.g., spinach, nuts, chocolate) or increasing fluids to help flush oxalates from your system. They may also suggest supplements or medications tailored to your specific condition.
How often should I get this test?
The frequency of testing depends on your medical history, symptoms, and diagnosis. Your provider will determine how often you need this test based on your individual needs, such as monitoring kidney health, managing a metabolic disorder, or preventing kidney stones.
  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