Citrate 24-hour Urine

• Test Name: Citrate 24-hour Urine Test.
• Test Type: Quantitative test measuring the amount of citrate excreted in urine over a 24-hour period.
• Specimen Required: A complete 24-hour urine collection.
• Methodology: Urine samples are collected over 24 hours, and citrate concentration is measured using chemical analysis techniques such as ion chromatography.
• Purpose: To assess citrate levels in urine, which can help in evaluating kidney function and the risk of kidney stone formation.

• Kidney Stone Risk Assessment: Citrate inhibits stone formation by binding calcium, and low urinary citrate levels are a risk factor for calcium kidney stones.
• Monitoring Metabolic Disorders: Used to monitor patients with conditions that cause altered citrate metabolism, such as renal tubular acidosis.
• Therapy Effectiveness: Helps assess the effectiveness of treatments for patients on therapies to prevent kidney stones, such as potassium citrate supplements.

• Citrate Measurement: The test quantifies the amount of citrate excreted in the urine over 24 hours.
• Other Electrolytes: Often tested alongside other urinary markers such as calcium, oxalate, and uric acid to provide a comprehensive kidney stone risk profile.
• Detailed Report: Provides quantitative values for urinary citrate and relevant clinical information.

• Normal Citrate Levels: Adequate urinary citrate levels indicate a lower risk of kidney stone formation.
• Low Citrate Levels (Hypocitraturia): Low levels of urinary citrate may indicate an increased risk of kidney stones, particularly calcium oxalate stones.
• High Citrate Levels: Elevated levels may occur in patients taking citrate supplements or those with certain metabolic conditions.

• Turnaround Time: Results are typically available within a few days after completing the 24-hour urine collection.
• Report Format: Includes quantitative values for urinary citrate, often expressed as mg/day or mmol/day, along with reference ranges.
• Clinical Action: Results guide the management of kidney stone prevention and therapy adjustments for metabolic conditions.

Q. What is the Citrate 24-hour Urine Test?
It is a test that measures the amount of citrate excreted in urine over a 24-hour period to evaluate the risk of kidney stone formation and monitor kidney health
 

Q. Why would a doctor order a Citrate 24-hour Urine Test?
Doctors may order this test to assess your risk of developing kidney stones or to monitor treatment effectiveness in preventing stone formation
 

Q. How is the Citrate 24-hour Urine Test performed?
You will collect all your urine over a 24-hour period in a special container provided by the lab. The sample is then sent for analysis to measure citrate levels
 

Q. What can low citrate levels in urine indicate?
Low citrate levels (hypocitraturia) in the urine can indicate an increased risk of kidney stones, especially calcium oxalate stones, as citrate helps prevent stone formation
 

Q. What does a high citrate level in urine mean?
High citrate levels may occur due to supplementation with potassium citrate or in certain metabolic conditions. Elevated levels are usually not a concern unless associated with an underlying condition
 

Q. How can I prepare for the test?
Follow your doctor’s instructions, which may include dietary restrictions or avoiding certain medications. Proper collection of all urine over the 24-hour period is crucial for accurate results
 

Q. How long does it take to receive results?
Results are typically available within a few days after the urine collection is completed and submitted for analysis