Quick Facts
- Sample: Urine (random collection)
- Fasting: No special preparation required
- Turnaround: 2-4 days (may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays)
What This Test Measures
This test measures calcium and creatinine in a random urine sample and uses these directly measured values to calculate a calcium-to-creatinine ratio. Urine calcium and urine creatinine are reported individually, while the calcium-to-creatinine ratio is a calculated result derived from those two measurements.
The calculated ratio is used to screen for hypercalciuria (excess calcium in the urine) and correlates well with 24-hour urine calcium excretion. Because this is a random sample rather than a timed collection, the result reflects calcium and creatinine levels at a single point in time rather than total calcium excreted over a full day.
Benefits
- Screens for hypercalciuria using a single random urine sample.
- Correlates well with 24-hour urine calcium excretion results.
- Reports urine calcium, urine creatinine, and the calculated ratio.
- Avoids the inconvenience of a full 24-hour urine collection.
- Provides a calculated ratio to support further clinical evaluation.
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals whose provider wants to screen for hypercalciuria.
- People being evaluated for possible hyperparathyroidism.
- Those with conditions that can destroy bone, such as multiple myeloma.
- Individuals being monitored during calcium supplementation.
- People who are immobilized or on steroid therapy.
- Those being evaluated for Paget disease or related bone conditions.
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This test measures urine calcium and urine creatinine and calculates a calcium-to-creatinine ratio from a random urine sample. The result may help a healthcare provider evaluate excess urinary calcium excretion, known as hypercalciuria. It is not a diagnostic test on its own and does not provide a complete evaluation of any condition or organ system.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This test may be appropriate for individuals whose healthcare provider wants to screen for hypercalciuria, or for those with conditions associated with increased urinary calcium excretion, such as hyperparathyroidism, vitamin D intoxication, bone-destroying diseases like multiple myeloma, immobilization, steroid therapy, Paget disease, or calcium supplementation. Not everyone with a related concern will need this specific test.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider this test if your healthcare provider wants to screen for hypercalciuria or evaluate urinary calcium excretion as part of a broader clinical picture. It may also be considered in situations involving bone disease, calcium supplementation, immobilization, or steroid therapy. This test does not replace a full medical evaluation.
4. What does this test measure?
This test measures urine calcium and urine creatinine directly, then reports a calculated calcium-to-creatinine ratio. The sample is a random urine collection, not a timed or 24-hour collection. The calculated ratio is distinct from the individually measured calcium and creatinine values and is used specifically to screen for hypercalciuria.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No special preparation is required for this test.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 2-4 days. Results may take longer based on weather, holidays, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your calcium, creatinine, and calculated ratio results depends on your individual health history, medications, supplements, hydration, and other laboratory findings. An abnormal result does not automatically confirm a condition such as hypercalciuria, and a normal result does not rule one out. Because the calculated ratio depends on both directly measured values, changes in either calcium or creatinine can affect it. Discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider for proper interpretation.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If your results fall outside the expected range, review them with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing is needed based on your individual health history. This test does not diagnose a specific condition or indicate what treatment, if any, may be appropriate.
9. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency should be determined by your healthcare provider based on your individual health needs and the reason this test was recommended. There is no standard repeat testing schedule for this test.
Pre-test preparation
No special preparation is required for this test.
