Description
24Hrs URINE, NA, Fasting or Non Fasting: As suggested by doctor
Sample Required:
For the Citrate, Urine 24-Hour test, a 24-hour urine collection is needed. You’ll be provided with a large, clean container for urine collection. You’ll need to collect all your urine over a 24-hour period.
Test Time:
The test time for Citrate, Urine 24-Hour may vary depending on the laboratory conducting the analysis. Typically, it takes a few days to process the collected urine sample and provide the results.
Test Normal Range:
The normal range for urinary citrate levels can vary slightly between laboratories. Your healthcare provider will interpret your results based on the reference range provided by the specific lab conducting the test.
What is the Test?
The Citrate, Urine 24-Hour test measures the amount of citrate, a salt of citric acid, excreted in your urine over a 24-hour period. Citrate plays a crucial role in preventing the formation of kidney stones by binding to calcium and inhibiting the crystallization of calcium oxalate, a common component of kidney stones.
Test Procedure:
You’ll receive a large container for collecting urine. It’s important to ensure that this container is kept clean throughout the 24-hour collection period. On the morning of the collection day, you’ll empty your bladder and discard this urine. Note the time as this marks the start of the 24-hour collection. Collect all subsequent urine (including the one from the following morning) over the next 24 hours. Ensure that all urine is stored in the provided container. Urine containers are typically kept in a cool place or a refrigerator during the collection period. On the same time the following morning, empty your bladder one final time, and add this urine to the collection container. This marks the end of the 24-hour collection. Return the collected urine sample to the laboratory as instructed by your healthcare provider.
When to Take the Test:
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have a history of kidney stones, metabolic acidosis, or if they suspect an underlying condition affecting citrate metabolism.
Who Should Take This Test:
Individuals with a history of kidney stones or those with metabolic disorders that affect citrate metabolism may be advised to take this test. It is ordered by healthcare providers, often nephrologists or urologists.
Precautions for Exceptional Cases (Pregnancy, etc.):
There are generally no specific precautions for pregnant individuals or other exceptional cases when taking the Citrate, Urine 24-Hour test. However, it’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about any underlying medical conditions or medications you are taking, as these factors can influence the test results.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q1: Why is citrate important in urine, especially concerning kidney stones?
A: Citrate binds to calcium in urine, preventing the formation of calcium crystals that can lead to kidney stone formation.
Q2: Can diet affect citrate levels in urine?
A: Yes, certain dietary factors can influence urinary citrate levels. Your healthcare provider may provide dietary recommendations if necessary.
Q3: Are there any dietary restrictions during the 24-hour urine collection?
A: Your healthcare provider may provide specific dietary instructions if needed. However, in most cases, you’ll be advised to eat and drink as usual during the collection period.
Q4: Can medications affect citrate levels in urine?
A: Yes, some medications can influence urinary citrate levels.Tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking.
Q5: Can I do this test at home?
A: Yes, if you follow your doctor’s recommendations for the correct urine collection and storage during the Citrate, Urine 24-Hour test.
