Citrate 24 Hour Urine Test: Comprehensive Kidney Stone Risk Assessment
Understanding the Citrate 24 Hour Urine Test
The Citrate 24 Hour Urine Test is a specialized diagnostic procedure that measures the amount of citrate excreted in urine over a complete 24-hour period. Citrate plays a vital role in kidney health by binding with calcium in the urine, preventing the formation of calcium-based kidney stones. This test provides crucial insights into your body’s metabolic processes and helps identify individuals at risk for recurrent kidney stone formation.
What Does This Test Measure?
The Citrate 24 Hour Urine Test specifically measures:
- Total citrate excretion over 24 hours
- Citrate concentration levels in urine
- Metabolic factors affecting kidney stone formation
- Renal handling of citrate and other minerals
Who Should Consider This Test?
This test is particularly important for individuals experiencing:
- Recurrent kidney stones or urinary calculi
- Family history of kidney stone disease
- Metabolic disorders affecting mineral balance
- Unexplained abdominal or flank pain
- Blood in urine (hematuria)
- Chronic urinary tract infections
- Monitoring treatment for existing kidney conditions
Clinical Indications and Symptoms
Patients with the following symptoms should strongly consider this test:
- Sharp, cramping pain in back and side
- Pain that spreads to lower abdomen and groin
- Pain that comes in waves and fluctuates in intensity
- Pain or burning sensation during urination
- Persistent need to urinate
- Cloudy or foul-smelling urine
- Nausea and vomiting accompanying urinary symptoms
Benefits of Taking the Citrate 24 Hour Urine Test
Early Detection and Prevention
This test provides numerous advantages for proactive kidney health management:
- Early Risk Identification: Detect low citrate levels before stone formation occurs
- Personalized Treatment Plans: Guide dietary and medication interventions
- Prevent Recurrence: Reduce the likelihood of future kidney stone episodes
- Comprehensive Metabolic Profile: Understand your body’s mineral handling
- Cost-Effective Screening: Affordable prevention versus expensive treatment
Advanced Diagnostic Accuracy
Our laboratory utilizes state-of-the-art spectrophotometry and enzymatic methods to ensure precise measurement of citrate levels. This advanced technology provides:
- High sensitivity and specificity
- Accurate quantification of citrate excretion
- Reliable results for clinical decision-making
- Same-day reporting for timely intervention
Understanding Your Test Results
Normal Reference Ranges
Normal citrate excretion typically ranges between 320-1240 mg/24 hours for adults. However, interpretation should always be done in consultation with your healthcare provider, considering:
- Your age, gender, and overall health status
- Dietary habits and fluid intake
- Concurrent medical conditions
- Medications that may affect citrate levels
Clinical Interpretation
Low Citrate Levels (Hypocitraturia): Values below 320 mg/24 hours indicate increased risk for calcium stone formation and may require:
- Dietary modifications to increase citrate intake
- Potassium citrate supplementation
- Increased fluid consumption
- Regular monitoring and follow-up testing
High Citrate Levels: Elevated levels are generally protective against stone formation but may indicate other metabolic conditions requiring evaluation.
Test Pricing and Availability
| Test Name | Discount Price | Regular Price |
|---|---|---|
| Citrate 24 Hour Urine Test | $24 USD | $26 USD |
Sample Collection Instructions
For accurate results, follow these collection guidelines:
- Collect urine in a container with 25 mL of 50% concentrated HCl to maintain pH below 3
- Record total 24-hour urine volume on the test request form
- Submit a 10 mL (minimum 5 mL) aliquot of the mixed 24-hour collection
- Ship sample refrigerated or frozen
- No special preparation required before testing
Turnaround Time
We offer efficient testing services with:
- Sample acceptance: Daily by 4 PM
- Report delivery: Same-day results
- Expert analysis by certified nephrologists
Nationwide Accessibility
We have branches across all major cities in the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Phoenix, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, Dallas, and San Jose. Our extensive network ensures convenient access to quality diagnostic services wherever you are located.
Take Control of Your Kidney Health Today
Don’t wait for kidney stone symptoms to disrupt your life. The Citrate 24 Hour Urine Test provides valuable insights into your metabolic health and kidney stone risk. With our affordable pricing and same-day results, you can take proactive steps toward better kidney health.
Ready to schedule your test? Call or WhatsApp us today at +1(267) 388-9828 to book your appointment or speak with our healthcare specialists. Our team is available to answer your questions and guide you through the testing process.
Early detection through comprehensive metabolic testing can prevent painful kidney stone episodes and protect your long-term renal health. Invest in your wellness today with our reliable and affordable Citrate 24 Hour Urine Test.

