Test ID CALU Calcium, 24 Hour, Urine
Useful For
Evaluation of calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate kidney stone risk, and calculation of urinary supersaturations
Evaluation of bone diseases, including osteoporosis and osteomalacia
Special Instructions
Method Name
Photometric, NM-BAPTA Reaction
Reporting Name
Calcium, 24 Hr, USpecimen Type
UrineCollection Container/Tube: 24-hour graduated urine container with no metal cap or glued insert
Submission Container/Tube: Plastic, 5-mL tube (Supply T465) or a clean, plastic aliquot container with no metal cap or glued insert
Specimen Volume: 4 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Collect urine for 24 hours.
2. Refrigerate specimen within 4 hours of completion of 24-hour collection.
Additional Information:
1. 24-Hour volume is required.
2. See Urine Preservatives in Special Instructions for multiple collections.
Urine Preservative Collection Options
Ambient |
Yes |
Refrigerated |
Preferred |
Frozen |
Yes |
6N HCl |
Yes |
50% Acetic Acid |
Yes |
Na2CO3 |
No |
Toluene |
Yes |
6N HNO3 |
Yes |
Boric Acid |
Yes |
Thymol |
Yes |
Specimen Minimum Volume
1 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
Urine | Refrigerated (preferred) | 14 days |
Frozen | 14 days | |
Ambient | 72 hours |
Clinical Information
Calcium is the fifth most common element in the body. It is a fundamental element necessary to form electrical gradients across membranes, an essential cofactor for many enzymes, and the main constituent in bone. Under normal physiologic conditions, the concentration of calcium in serum and in cells is tightly controlled. Calcium is excreted in both urine and feces. Ordinarily about 20% to 25% of dietary calcium is absorbed and 98% of filtered calcium is reabsorbed in the kidney. Traffic of calcium between the gastrointestinal tract, bone, and kidney is tightly controlled by a complex regulatory system that includes vitamin D and parathyroid hormone. Sufficient bioavailable calcium is essential for bone health. Excessive excretion of calcium in the urine is a common contributor to kidney stone risk.
Reference Values
Males: <250 mg/24 hours
Females: <200 mg/24 hours
Reference values have not been established for patients <18 years and >83 years of age.
Reference values apply to 24-hour collection.
Cautions
No significant cautionary statements.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday; Continuously.
Report Available
Same day/1 dayPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test has been modified from the manufacturer's instructions. Its performance characteristics were determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements.CPT Code Information
82340