What is this test?
- This laboratory test is performed on a urine sample to measure the levels of urea excreted out in urine. Urea is an end-product of metabolic protein breakdown. It is produced by the liver and excreted out through urine. Abnormal levels of urea nitrogen may indicate a kidney or liver disease.
Why is this test performed?
This test is performed:
- To evaluate kidney function
- To help in the diagnosis of liver damage
- To monitor the efficacy of treatment
- To evaluate the protein balance in body.
- How to prepare for this test?
No special preparations are required for this test. Avoid consuming big amounts of meat and proteins before the test. However, inform your doctor about your complete medical and drug history.
- What are the symptoms of a kidney disease?
- Unexplained weight loss
- Decreased appetite
- Shortness of breath
- Swollen ankles, hands, or feet
- Urinary frequency
- Cloudy urine
- Itchy skin
- Increased thirst
- Is it necessary to collect urine over 24-hours?
Yes, it is necessary to collect the entire urine over a 24-hours period as it gives an average urea level over the entire day and better help in understanding what’s going on in the body.
- What should I do if I have skipped urine collection in 24 hours?
If you have skipped urine collection in between the 24-hour collection, inform your laboratory because the test may become invalid.
- How to take the sample?
- Clean your hands and genitals
- Pour urine in a sterile container
- Avoid contact of container with genitals
- Wash your hands properly.
Normal range: 12-20 grams per 24 hours.
- Interpretation of test results:
- High clearance levels indicate that your kidney might be breaking down too many proteins
- Low clearance levels indicate that you have low levels of protein in the diet or you are having a kidney disease.
