Description
24 HR Urine PH
Sample Type: Urine
HOUR URINE COLLECTION INSTRUCTION
- Collect 24 Hour urine container using a sterile 24 hour Urine Collection Container (which is available at the laboratory).
- On the day of collection, discard the first voided urine. Write the time of the first voiding as the Start Time. For example, if you start at 7 a.m one day, your stop time is 7 a.m the next day.
- Collect the second and subsequent voided urine for 24 Hours into the container. Use a clean glass container to collect urine then pour it into the 24-hour container. Rinse the glass container with water only.
- Keep the 24 Hour urine in the refrigerator unless instructed otherwise.
- To end the 24 Hour collection, urinate at the stop time. Pour the urine into the 24-hour Urine Collection Container.
- Label the bottle with the patient’s information and send it to the laboratory immediately.
Note: Do not urinate directly into the 24-hour container.
Tests Included:
Measurement of urine pH over a 24-hour period
Sample Required:
Complete collection of urine over a 24-hour period
Test Time:
Results are typically available within a few days.
Test Range Values:
Normal urine pH levels are typically between 4.6 and 8.0. Abnormal pH levels can indicate various conditions, including metabolic disorders or kidney issues.
What is the test?
The 24-hour urine pH test measures the acidity or alkalinity of the urine over a 24-hour period. Urine pH can provide valuable information about the body’s acid-base balance and kidney function.
Test Procedure:
The patient collects all urine voided over a 24-hour period. The total volume of urine is measured, and a sample is sent to the laboratory for pH measurement.
When to take the test:
When a healthcare provider suspects metabolic disorders, kidney stones, or other conditions related to urine pH imbalance, they may order this 24-hour urine test.
Who should take the test:
Patients with a history of kidney stones, certain metabolic disorders, or recurrent urinary tract infections, or those undergoing treatment for these conditions, may require this 24-hour urine pH test for diagnosis and monitoring.
Precautions for exceptional cases (pregnancy, etc.):
Pregnant individuals can undergo this test if necessary, but healthcare providers should be informed about the pregnancy status for accurate interpretation of the results.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for 24-Hour Urine pH Test:
Q1: What can cause acidic urine?
A: Acidic urine can be caused by various factors, including certain medications, high-protein diets, metabolic disorders, and certain types of kidney stones. Proper evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause.
Q2: Can alkaline urine indicate a urinary tract infection?
A: Yes, alkaline urine can sometimes indicate a urinary tract infection. However, additional tests, such as urine culture, are usually performed to confirm the presence of infection and identify the specific microorganisms causing the infection.
Q3: Can urine pH levels fluctuate throughout the day?
A: Yes, urine pH levels can fluctuate based on diet, hydration, and other factors. A 24-hour urine pH test provides a more comprehensive overview of the body’s acid-base balance, minimizing the impact of daily variations.
*Please note that specific testing protocols and guidelines may vary based on the latest recommendations from health authorities and regulatory agencies. It is essential to consult healthcare professionals and follow local testing guidelines for accurate and appropriate testing.
