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Zirconium/Creatinine Ratio, Urine

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

A urine test that measures zirconium relative to creatinine, helping account for differences in urine concentration when evaluating possible zirconium exposure.

Quick summary

["This ratio can help assess urinary zirconium, but results must be interpreted alongside exposure history and other clinical findings."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
77189-9
Short code
Zirconium/Creat Ur-sRto
Synonyms
Zirconium/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 test measures the amount of zirconium in urine relative to the amount of creatinine. Creatinine is a waste product used as a marker of how concentrated the urine is.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate exposure to zirconium from an occupational, environmental, or other source. Results are most useful when compared with the patient's exposure history and symptoms.

How is the test performed?

A urine sample is collected and analyzed by a laboratory. The laboratory compares the amount of zirconium with the amount of creatinine in the same sample to provide a ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's urine-collection instructions. If the test is being used to assess a workplace exposure, ask whether a timed or end-of-shift collection is required and whether the sample should be collected after a work period.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A higher ratio may indicate increased urinary zirconium and possible exposure, but it can also vary with urine concentration, collection timing, and individual factors. A result should be interpreted by a clinician familiar with the patient's environment and medical history, along with any additional testing needed.

Short name

Urine Zirconium/Creatinine Ratio

Frequently asked questions

What does the zirconium/creatinine ratio measure?
It measures zirconium relative to creatinine in urine. The ratio helps adjust for the fact that urine may be more or less concentrated at different times.
What can cause elevated urinary zirconium?
Elevated levels may occur after exposure to zirconium-containing dust, fumes, water, or other materials. The source and significance depend on the exposure history and clinical context.
Does an abnormal result mean someone is poisoned?
Not necessarily. An abnormal result can suggest exposure but does not by itself establish poisoning or predict health effects; a clinician should interpret it with other findings.
  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