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Urate (Uric Acid), 24-Hour Urine — Excretion Rate

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

Measures the amount of uric acid excreted in urine over 24 hours, which can help assess uric acid handling by the kidneys.

Quick summary

["This test shows how much uric acid your body releases in urine over one full day."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
57604-1
Short code
6A-OH-THS 2D p Dex 24h Ur-mRate
Synonyms
6A-OH-THS 2D p Dex 24h Ur-mRate
Category
liver
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 rate at which urate, also called uric acid, is excreted in urine collected for 24 hours. It reflects the total amount released by the kidneys during the collection period.

Why might I need this test?

It may be used to evaluate uric acid metabolism, especially when kidney stones, gout, or other kidney concerns are being investigated. Results can also help monitor treatment or medication effects.

How is the test performed?

You collect all urine for a complete 24-hour period using the container and instructions provided by the laboratory. The laboratory measures the urate in the collected sample and calculates the excretion rate.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the laboratory's collection instructions carefully, including the start and finish times and how to store the container. Continue your usual diet and fluid intake unless your clinician tells you otherwise, and tell the laboratory if any urine is missed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A higher-than-expected rate may occur with increased uric acid production, gout, high cell turnover, certain medications, or reduced kidney function. A lower rate may reflect low uric acid production, kidney disease, or the effects of some medications; results should be interpreted alongside diet, symptoms, medications, and other tests.

Short name

24-Hour Urine Uric Acid

Frequently asked questions

Is fasting required for this test?
Fasting is generally not required, but follow any specific instructions from your clinician or laboratory. Eating and drinking normally helps ensure that the result reflects your usual metabolic state.
What happens if urine is missed during the collection period?
A missed collection can make the calculated 24-hour excretion rate inaccurate. Tell the laboratory when a collection was missed, because they may advise repeating the test or adjusting the interpretation.
Does an abnormal result mean I have gout?
No. An abnormal result does not diagnose gout by itself and may have many causes. Your clinician will interpret it with your symptoms, medical history, medications, and other laboratory 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